Pet Surgery

Not all surgical procedures are performed to treat conditions. In fact, some of the most common such procedures prevent many serious health complications. Spaying involves the surgical removal of a female pet's ovaries, fallopian tubes, and uterus. The ovariohysterectomy process not only helps control the population of unwanted pets in our community but also stops or prevents undesirable breeding habits and compulsions. This neutering procedure, orchiectomy, provides much the same benefits - preventing the surplus pet population while resolving roaming, aggression, and other negative compulsions and behaviours associated with intact dogs and cats. Furthermore, the surgical removal of these reproductive organs decreases your pet's risk of developing certain cancers and other serious health complications; for instance, uterine infections or pyometras can be deadly to unaltered female dogs and cats. Now, some of the most common surgical treatments include soft tissue surgery, orthopedic surgery, and dental surgery.

When we refer to the soft tissues, we are talking about the external and largest organ of your pet's body - the skin - as well as the muscles, tendons, ligaments, blood vessels, lymph nodes, and much more. This category of surgical treatments is expansive. We have surgically treated patients with everything from potentially life-threatening blockages (toys, bones, and other "foreign bodies" that are swallowed) and bladder stones to wounds, obstructive airway disorders, trauma to the eyes, and most anything that is not related to the joints and bones.

This is where our orthopedic surgical expertise comes into play. The term orthopedic largely refers to the conditions that affect your pet's skeletal structures - including the bones and joints. Our expertise includes treating cranial cruciate ligament disease and hip dysplasia. Typically, surgery is indicated for these problems to restore stability and function and to ease pain. Of course, the appropriate next steps depend on various factors, including your pet's activity level, size, age, and the extent of instability in the affected areas. With these conditions, guidance on lifestyle interventions like weight management can make a world of difference and furthermore complement other therapies.

At Upper Village Veterinary Hospital, we take dental care very seriously. Just as the health of your teeth and gums can impact your quality of life and overall health, the same notion applies to our dogs and cats. For this reason, dental services are part of your pet's ongoing preventive care. With regular prophylaxis or teeth cleaning, we can avoid the damage that leads to the need for surgical procedures, such as extraction of decayed teeth. We also check for suspicious tumours or growths that might require surgical removal during regular exams.

As you can see, these procedures vary dramatically depending on your dog's or cat's needs. Regardless of those needs, clients have peace of mind. We will discuss clearly and thoroughly what to expect before, during, and after your pet's procedure. We emphasize proper preparation and after-care because it supports fast and uneventful healing. This also represents a true partnership between our team, you, and your household. We can advise on what is "normal" following surgery and potential trouble signs to watch for (after all, our pets can't tell us verbally what they need or how they feel!). We'll also provide guidance on things like diet, medications, and follow-up visits in the days after your pet's surgery.

If you are concerned about any changes involving your pet, phone (647) 560-9276 to speak with a member of our team in midtown Toronto, ON today.