My pet needs surgery. What’s next?
By Marc Greenberg, DVM, MS, DACVS (SA)
Board Certified in Veterinary Surgery
Remember: This information does not replace consultation with and physical exam by a veterinarian. Always consult your veterinarian for advice about your specific pet. When in doubt about an emergency, call our VSEC emergency service and we can help guide you anytime, day or night: (914) 315-4600.
Hearing that your pet needs surgery leaves many pet owners nervous and worried. But surgical procedures are common in veterinary medicine, and are typically associated with good outcomes and improved quality of life.
Many procedures are performed by primary care veterinarians at your local veterinary clinic. But some procedures are more complex, or more challenging due to patient health considerations or other factors. For these reasons, your veterinarian may refer you to our surgeon Dr. Marc Greenberg and the VSEC Surgery Team for continued care.
What Can I Expect At My Appointment?
When we evaluate your pet for surgery, we review all of their previous history and test results, explain further diagnostic and treatment options, take our time to answer all of your questions, and share all of this information with your primary veterinarian. We are available for follow-up questions after your initial consultation, and throughout your pet's healing period.
What Happens On The Day Of Surgery?
From the moment your pet arrives at our facility, we will see to all of their needs and provide them with comfortable housing. Our team will do our best to ensure that your pet's stay with us is as stress-free as possible. You will receive updates immediately after your pet's procedure and later during their recovery, but you can always check in to put your mind at ease.
How Do I Get Ready to Take My Pet Home?
Throughout your pet’s stay, we will communicate with you and provide clear instructions for their needs after surgery. We will review these instructions with you when you take your pet home, and will provide any necessary medications or coordinate with an outside pharmacy if preferred. After discharge, we’ll check in on you and your pet's recovery to answer any follow-up questions. Our hospital is open 24 hours a day for any unanticipated questions or concerns.
Will My Pet Experience Pain?
There is no getting around the fact that surgery causes pain. We are very mindful of your pet's comfort, and take numerous measures to minimize pain associated with surgery. Your pet will likely receive pain medications prior to the start of the procedure, known as pre-emptive analgesia, to target pain before it occurs. They will likely also be on a constant drip of one or more medicines to minimize discomfort. At VSEC, we use the latest techniques in local anesthetics are employed to optimize pain relief and the treatments are tailored to your pet to ensure that their recovery is as smooth as possible.
What If I Have Follow-Up Questions?
We will provide you with ways to communicate with our team to ensure timely responses to your questions. You will be able to send photos or videos as needed. For time-sensitive questions or urgent concerns, our VSEC team of doctors and experienced nursing staff is available 24 hours a day to support you and your pet through the recovery process.
How Will I Hear About Test Results?
Our surgeon, Dr. Marc Greenberg, will call you with any test results when they become available. We will answer your questions and provide next steps and recommendations. Lab results are shared with your primary veterinarian in real time, and we work with your veterinarian to ensure the best continued care for you and your pet.
Learn more about Veterinary Specialty & Emergency Center’s surgery service.
