Surgical Care Excellence at Wellness Animal Hospital

At Wellness Animal Hospital in Lakewood Ranch, FL, we are dedicated to providing exceptional surgical care for pets. Our state-of-the-art facility features advanced surgical suites, strict safety protocols, and an experienced veterinary team to ensure the best outcomes for your pet.

We understand that surgery can be stressful for both pets and their owners, which is why we prioritize clear communication, compassionate care, and a focus on post-operative recovery. Meet Our Team to learn more about the dedicated professionals caring for your pet.

What to Expect with Pet Surgery

Pet surgeries range from routine procedures to emergency operations, making it important for pet owners to be informed about:

  • Why surgery is needed
  • Pre-operative preparation
  • The procedure itself
  • Post-surgical recovery

Before any procedure, we conduct comprehensive pre-surgical evaluations, including blood work and imaging, to assess overall health and minimize surgical risks. These exams ensure your pet is a good candidate for anesthesia and allows us to tailor the surgical approach. For questions or consultations, Contact Us.

Common Pet Surgeries at Wellness Animal Hospital

Spaying and Neutering

Spaying and neutering are essential for pet population control and offer significant health benefits, including:

  • Reduced risk of reproductive cancers (such as mammary tumors and testicular cancer)
  • Decreased aggression and territorial behaviors
  • Lower likelihood of roaming and escaping

Most pets recover within 7-10 days with minimal discomfort. Owners should monitor the incision site for swelling or discharge and limit their pet’s activity during recovery.

Dental Surgery

Oral health is critical for your pet’s overall well-being. We perform a range of dental procedures, including:

  • Tooth extractions (for severely decayed or broken teeth)
  • Gum disease treatments (to prevent infections from spreading to vital organs)
  • Deep cleanings (to remove plaque and tartar buildup)

Regular dental check-ups help prevent periodontal disease, which can lead to pain, bad breath, and even systemic infections. Post-surgery, a soft food diet and pain management are recommended to ensure a smooth recovery.

Cruciate Ligament Repair in Dogs

Cruciate ligament injuries are one of the most common orthopedic issues in dogs, often causing limping, swelling, and mobility issues. Our hospital specializes in Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy (TPLO) and other advanced surgical techniques to restore joint function.

Without treatment, these injuries can lead to arthritis and chronic pain. If your pet is showing signs of lameness, early intervention is key. Read more about Canine Cruciate Ligament Injuries.

Tumor Removal and Biopsies

Detecting and removing tumors early can be life-saving for pets. Our experienced veterinary surgeons perform:

  • Mass removals (benign and malignant growths)
  • Biopsies (to determine if the tumor is cancerous)
  • Reconstructive surgery (if extensive tissue removal is required)

Pet owners should monitor their pets for new lumps, sudden weight loss, or behavioral changes and schedule a veterinary exam if any concerning signs appear.

Emergency Surgeries: Gastric Torsion & Foreign Object Removal

Gastric Torsion (Bloat)

Gastric torsion, or bloat, is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate surgical intervention. Signs include:

  • Swollen abdomen
  • Excessive drooling
  • Unproductive retching (trying to vomit but nothing comes out)

Large, deep-chested breeds (like Great Danes and German Shepherds) are at higher risk. Preventive measures include feeding smaller meals and avoiding exercise after eating.

Foreign Object Removal

Young pets and curious eaters often swallow objects like toys, socks, or bones, leading to intestinal blockages. If your pet is experiencing:

  • Repeated vomiting
  • Abdominal pain or bloating
  • Loss of appetite

Immediate veterinary care is needed. In many cases, we can remove objects using endoscopy to avoid invasive surgery.

Preparing Your Pet for Surgery

Proper preparation ensures the best possible surgical outcome. Here’s what pet owners should do:

  • Follow fasting instructions (No food for 8-12 hours before surgery unless advised otherwise)
  • Discuss medications with your vet (Certain medications may need to be adjusted before surgery)
  • Create a comfortable recovery area at home
  • Consider pet insurance to help cover unexpected surgical costs

Post-Surgical Recovery: What to Expect

The recovery process is just as important as the surgery itself. Our post-operative care recommendations include:

  • Pain management – Prescribed pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications
  • Incision care – Keep the surgical site clean and dry, and monitor for swelling or discharge
  • Restricted activity – Prevent running, jumping, or rough play for the recommended healing period
  • Follow-up appointments – To check healing progress and remove sutures if needed

Schedule a follow-up appointment to ensure proper recovery.

FAQs About Pet Surgery

What are the risks of pet surgery?

While modern veterinary surgery is highly safe, risks may include:

  • Infection
  • Anesthesia reactions
  • Bleeding complications

Our strict monitoring and advanced anesthesia protocols minimize these risks.

How do I know if my pet needs surgery?

Signs that surgery may be necessary include:

  • Persistent pain or lameness
  • Difficulty eating or bad breath (dental issues)
  • Lumps that are growing or changing

Schedule a veterinary consultation for an expert evaluation.

Why Choose Wellness Animal Hospital for Your Pet’s Surgery?

At Wellness Animal Hospital in Lakewood Ranch, FL, we are committed to:

  • State-of-the-art surgical facilities
  • Highly trained veterinary surgeons
  • Comprehensive pre- and post-operative care
  • Personalized treatment plans for each pet

Your pet’s health is our top priority, and we are dedicated to providing exceptional surgical care with compassion and expertise. Schedule a consultation today

When it comes to your pet’s health, trust Wellness Animal Hospital for expert surgical care and ongoing support.