Our veterinary staff has extensive experience in general surgical procedures. Our combined knowledge and years of experience allows us to perform the most effective and safe surgeries possible.
Before surgery, we will have a pre-operative appointment to determine if your pet is healthy enough to undergo the procedure, and to discuss details of the surgery with you. We understand that when your dear pet is about to have a surgical procedure, emotions can run high. Before, during, and after the operation, we will make sure to listen to your concerns, offer advice, and provide materials and information so you can feel prepared and knowledgeable.
Here are a few common surgical procedures which we are equipped to perform in our surgical suite:
Surgical Oncology
Oncology refers to the study and prevention of cancer. Surgical oncology is typically the removal of a cancerous mass, and sometimes the surrounding area. The goal of these surgeries is usually to remove and prevent the spread of cancerous cells. In addition to surgery, other elements of a treatment plan such as chemotherapy or pain management may be recommended.
At AM/PM Animal Hospital, we always recommend spay/neuter procedure for companion animals. There are many important reasons why we believe this is the best choice for most families.
First and foremost, your pet’s health will be improved. Spaying and neutering helps prevent cancers and infections of the reproductive system. Animals who have been spayed or neutered tend to have longer lifespans than their fertile counterparts. In addition, having your pet spayed and neutered also benefits your individual family. Pets who have been altered are easier to care for because certain behavioral and physical problems associated with their sex organs are diminished. Finally, spaying and neutering pets not intended for breeding is the first line of defense against the pet homelessness crisis. Puppies and kittens from unplanned litters crowd animal shelters nationwide.
The doctors and staff at AM/PM Animal Hospital take your pet’s comfort and safety very seriously. When the procedure is done at AM/PM Animal Hospital, it includes:
Spaying refers to the removal of the ovaries and uterus in female animals. Once a dog or cat is spayed, they will no longer have heat periods, and will not be able to become pregnant. Being responsible for an expecting pet is an expensive and stressful process, especially if unplanned! Spaying will also help to prevent uterine infections, ovarian or uterine tumors, and breast cancer. We recommend that female puppies are spayed between 4-6 months of age, or before their first heat cycle. This will ensure that all of the previously described benefits will be applicable to your pet.
Neutering to the removal of the testes of male animals. Neutered males tend to display less aggressive behaviors, and have a lessened desire to roam in search of a mate. They will also be less likely to mark their territory with their urine, especially if the procedure is performed before they form the habit. Neutering can prevent testicular and prostate cancers. The recovery from the surgery is typically quick and requires minimal post-operative care.
Your pet deserves to live a full, happy, and comfortable life. At AM/PM Animal Hospital, we want to ensure that our patients are free of both acute and chronic pain.
Acute pain is sharp and has a sudden onset. It is typically a temporary form of pain, and will be relieved when the cause of the pain is addressed and healed. Acute pain is caused by situations such as injury, surgery, or infections. In certain circumstances, for example before a surgery, acute pain can be anticipated and therefore mitigated preemptively.
Chronic pain is continuous and pervasive. Conditions which are long-lasting and progressive, such as diabetes or cancer, are often the culprits behind chronic pain. Senior pets are often most susceptible to chronic conditions. Some examples of ways which we can treat chronic pain include non-steroid medications, or oral and injectable analgesics.
If your pet is recovering from an injury, disease, or procedure, limiting their mobility and keeping them in a soft-padded environment can help to mitigate their pain. Avoid poking or prodding them to investigate where their pain is, as it might hurt them further, or they could even lash out and bite to protect themselves. Give us a call first.
Are you worried your pet is in pain? Because pets cannot vocalize their feelings to us, it is helpful to be observant. Watch out for these signs:
Even if your pet is on pain medication, it is important to monitor them for these signs of pain and keep us abreast of any developments. If signs of pain are noted, we may need to consider altering their dose or form of medication, or look at additional treatment options.
Located in the South Lamar neighborhood in South Austin. Directly off of US-290 between Bluebonnet and Oltorf.
Phone: 512-448-2676
