Pre-Surgery Instructions for Your Pet
We want your pet’s surgical experience to be as safe and stress-free as possible. Please review the following instructions carefully before your pet’s procedure.
Preparing for Surgery
- Fasting: Please do not feed your pet after 9:00 PM the night before surgery. An empty stomach helps prevent complications such as regurgitation under anesthesia.
- Water: Fresh water is fine to offer and does not need to be withheld.
- Medications: If your pet takes prescribed medications, please give them as directed. Morning doses may be given with a very small treat unless told otherwise.
Day of Surgery
- Scheduling: Your pet may not go into surgery first thing in the morning. We schedule multiple procedures daily, and occasionally life-threatening emergencies may cause delays. We appreciate your patience if this occurs.
- During Recovery: When you pick up your pet, they may be a little sleepy or wobbly from anesthesia. This is completely normal, and most pets prefer to rest quietly at home the first evening.
Overnight Care
- Same-Day Discharge: Most patients are able to go home the same day.
- Overnight Monitoring: Some procedures (such as foreign body removal, splenectomy, or pyometra) may require closer observation. If your pet needs overnight monitoring, we may recommend transfer to a trusted 24-hour emergency hospital. If transfer is advised, our team will coordinate with the hospital, but owners are responsible for transporting their pet.
- In-Hospital Care: All surgical patients are monitored continuously until they are stable and fully recovered from anesthesia before being discharged.
Patient Updates
- Post-Procedure Call: We will call you once your pet’s surgery is complete and they are in recovery.
- Checking In: You’re welcome to call for updates during the day. Please ensure we can reach you by phone in case the doctor needs to discuss your pet’s care.
- Our Priority: While we make every effort to provide timely updates, our priority is always giving each patient our full medical attention.
Discharge & Pick-Up
- Pick-Up Time: Discharge appointments are typically scheduled between 2:00 and 6:00 PM. Because veterinary medicine can be unpredictable, there may be occasional delays beyond normal business hours. If you need a specific pick-up time, please let us know at drop-off so we can do our best to accommodate.
- Discharge Instructions: At pick-up, our team will meet with you to review your pet’s recovery plan and answer any questions. Written instructions will also go home with you. Please read and follow these carefully to reduce the risk of complications.
Rechecks & Follow-Up Care
- Recheck Appointments: Rechecks can be scheduled with our hospital or with your regular veterinarian.
- Collaboration: If you choose to schedule with your primary veterinarian, our team is always available for consultation should questions or concerns arise.
Thank You
Thank you for entrusting Plaza Animal Hospital with your pet’s surgical care. By following these guidelines, you are helping us ensure the safest possible outcome for your beloved companion.
