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 We know that leaving your pet to undergo
a surgical procedure can be very stressful for all involved. Rest easy knowing
that your pet’s surgical procedure is being performed in one of the cleanest,
most professionally run practices in the Capital District. Our caring staff
will be beside your pet every step of the way. We use only the safest drugs at
the lowest doses to minimize any potential complications. Your pet’s anesthesia
will be monitored with state of the art respiratory monitors, electrocardiogram
and pulse oximeters. All pets are given pain relievers and sedatives to
minimize the pain and stress of surgery both before and after the procedure. We
use heated surgery tables and warm blankets for recovery to ensure comfort. For
older, or high-risk pets, an intravenous catheter and fluids will be
recommended. Rest assured that the staff here will do everything possible to
ensure your pet’s safety and comfort.
Pre-surgical exam:
Before your pet undergoes surgery, we request that you make an
appointment for a pre-surgical exam. During this exam, we will examine your pet
for any potential health problems that may complicate the surgical procedure.
At this time, we will draw any samples necessary for pre-anesthetic testing.
This may include a heartworm/lyme test, blood chemistry, feline leukemia/ FIV
test and fecal testing. We will also update any overdue vaccinations. Any
health issues your pet may be facing can be treated so that he/she is in the
best possible health to undergo the procedure.
You will be given an estimate for the surgery
and will able to schedule it at your convenience. This appointment is the
perfect time to ask any questions or voice any concerns you have regarding the
procedure. Our goal is to ease your mind as much as possible and to minimize
the possibility of any surgical complications.
Pre-Anesthetic Bloodwork:
Although your pet may appear perfectly healthy, there is always a possibility
that he/she may have an underlying health problem. Most pets with abnormalities
in organ function will not show any obvious signs until they have lost most of
their organ function. For example, a dog or cat can appear perfectly healthy
until 75% of their kidneys have been destroyed. Because the kidneys, liver and
red blood cells are responsible for helping your pet recover from the anesthesia
and surgery, it is important to know that all is working properly before
undergoing an operation. We can do this by drawing a blood sample and testing
your pet for proper organ function either at the pre-surgical exam or on the
morning of surgery. We do not require this for most pets but it is
obviously highly recommended.
Heartworm/Lyme test: All dogs
over 1 year of age must have a current heartworm/Lyme test before surgery.
Heartworm disease is one of the leading causes of anesthetic deaths in dogs.
Lyme disease can compromise kidney function, which is necessary to metabolize
anesthetic drugs.
Feline Leukemia/FIV test: All
cats should have a negative Feline Leukemia and FIV test prior to surgery.
These diseases can severely interfere with tissue healing post surgery and can
result in premature death.
Vaccinations: Although every
effort is made  to isolate your pet from other patients, all pets must be up to
date on vaccinations for their own safety and health. For dogs this includes
current Distemper and Rabies vaccination and a Bordatella vaccination within the
past 6 months. For cats, this includes a current Distemper and Rabies
vaccination.
Preparation: The night before
surgery, pull up all dog and cat food after dinner. Your pet may have water
overnight. Please drop off your pet for surgery between 7:30 and 8:30am. You
will be asked to sign some pre-surgical and pre-anesthetic forms. This process
should not take more than 10 minutes.
 As you
can see, the staff at the East Greenbush Animal Hospital will make every effort
to ensure that’s your pet’s experience is as safe and comfortable as possible.
From the pre-surgical exam, to the post-operative recheck we will be there every
step of the way. We always welcome any questions or concerns that you may have
regarding the health and safety of your pet.
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