Understanding the Spay/Neuter Surgery
Spaying (ovariohysterectomy) and neutering (orchiectomy) is the surgical removal of reproductive organs. Choosing to spay or neuter your pet will ensure that they live a healthier, happier and longer life. It is important to understand what is included in your pet’s care when comparing the cost of the surgery among other veterinary clinics or at the Humane Society.
At Davis Drive Animal Clinic we believe strongly in providing high quality care with an emphasis on anesthetic safety and patient comfort. Here are just some of the features and benefits we are able to include in the cost of your pet’s surgery.
Preanesthetic Blood Tests
- Preanesthetic blood tests are completed in advance of surgery to ensure your pet’s organs are functioning properly
- If there are any abnormalities in these tests, we can change the anesthetic protocol to meet your pet’s specific needs or even delay the surgery to address other health concerns first
- This bloodwork will also act as a baseline reference for your pet in the future
Premedication
- We provide an injection of medication to your pet before anesthesia to provide relaxation and pain relief
Intravenous Catheterization
- We place an intravenous catheter which provides us with instant access to your pet’s circulatory system (blood) while they anesthetized
- This saves time if medications need to be administered in an emergency situation
Intravenous Fluids (I.V. Fluids)
- Maintains your pet’s blood pressure while they are anesthetized and keeps your pet hydrated and their organs functioning
- Your pet recovers faster so they can come home to you sooner
General Anesthesia
- Oxygen is first provided by mask then an anesthetic agent is injected intravenously to allow for the placement of a breathing tube into the airway. We then provide oxygen and an inhalant anesthetic to keep your pet under a safe plane of anesthesia
Anesthetic Monitoring
- Equipment that records your pet’s heart rate, respiratory rate, blood pressure, oxygen saturation and CO2 levels is monitored by a Registered Veterinary Technician
- This keeps your pet safe
Analgesia
- We include pain medications to ensure that your pet is comfortable and not suffering from any pain or discomfort
- We also use local anesthetics (nerve blocks or freezing) to improve pain relief
- Pain relief medications are dispensed to keep your pet comfortable at home
Post-Operative Support
- Our surgical team will call you when surgery is complete with an update
- We schedule discharge appointments to review written post-op care instructions and schedule a post-operative exam for the next day if required
- This provides you peace of mind and ensures your pet is recovering well
