Veterinary Surgery in San Jose

Common procedures

Confirm directly with the clinic which procedures it performs. Some complex orthopedic or specialty surgeries are referred to specialty hospitals.

• Spay and neuter
• Removal of skin and soft-tissue masses
• Wound repair
• Dental extractions
• Other soft-tissue procedures as determined by the clinic

Before surgery

Expect a pre-surgical exam and, commonly, bloodwork to check organ function and guide the anesthetic plan. Your clinic will give fasting instructions, typically withholding food after the night before. Follow them exactly and ask which medications to give or skip.

Anesthesia, monitoring and pain control

Modern protocols combine sedation, pain medication and monitored general anesthesia. A trained team member tracks heart rate, oxygen, temperature and blood pressure, and pain control continues after the procedure.

Recovery at home

• Limit running, jumping and stairs for the period your veterinarian specifies
• Keep the incision clean and dry and prevent licking with a cone or recovery suit
• Give medications exactly as directed
• Call the clinic if you see swelling, discharge, bleeding, vomiting or a loss of appetite

Questions to ask your veterinarian

• What is the estimated total cost, and what does it include?
• Will my pet be monitored by a dedicated team member?
• What pain medication will go home with us?
• When will the recheck happen?