Preparing your dog for pet surgery can be stressful since there is so much information to remember. Our veterinarian at North Heights Veterinary Clinic in Appleton, WI, will give you more detailed instructions, but here is some general information to keep in mind.
Our veterinary clinic may require some tests to be performed before your dog goes under general anesthesia. These tests can include blood work, ultrasounds, or other diagnostic exams. The week before surgery is the time to figure out how you will be getting your dog to and from our veterinary clinic. The incision must be kept dry following surgery, so schedule visits the groomer accordingly.
Make sure your dog does not eat the night before surgery. You should ask our veterinarians questions about exercise and medication before surgery. You should also prepare your home for the next day to make sure your dog has a comfortable place to recover. This includes making sure food and medications are ready to go and finding a separate area for other pets in your home. Be sure your pet has clean bedding to reduce the risk of infection.
One of the most important things you need to do the morning of the surgery is to make sure your dog doesn’t have any food or water since this can lead to complications during surgery. You will likely have to drop your dog off at our veterinarian early in the morning in case there needs to be additional tests. Double-check that the front desk has your up-to-date contact information so they can reach out with updates.
Following surgery, our veterinarian will give you detailed post-operative care instructions. If you have any further questions about pet surgery in Appleton, WI, call North Heights Veterinary Clinic at (920) 739-7816 or visit us online.