Specialty Surgery

Preparation for Surgery

A. Consultation

We ask that you arrive 15 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment to enable us to prepare a file for your pet. We should have any documentation from your regular veterinarian before your arrival; however, you may be transporting some of the information with you –please check if you are to bring x-rays. We also ask that you have available a list of the medication(s) and food your pet is currently receiving. You and your pet will meet with one of our surgeons who will take a thorough history of your pet’s condition, review the information from your family veterinarian and then examine your pet. If needed, a diagnostic plan will be outlined to further specify what is the best course of action for your pet.

Once a diagnosis is made, the details of surgery, postoperative care and potential complications and expected outcomes will be discussed. We understand that this is a lot of information to digest so please do not be afraid to ask for clarification of anything you do not understand. Our reception and technical staff are also very willing to go over details with you at any time. In addition, you will have an opportunity to discuss the aftercare in more detail when your pet is discharged from the hospital. All go home instructions are written down and given to you in a folder at discharge.

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B. Diagnostics

further testing may be needed to arrive at specific diagnosis of your pet’s condition. This may include x-rays, blood-work and urinalysis, joint fluid analysis, biopsy, CT (computerized tomography) and arthroscopy. We will also consult with our medical colleagues should the need arise to get as complete a picture of your pet’s health and suitability for surgery. Preoperative blood-work is necessary to assess the function of your pet’s internal organs to enable us to perform safe anesthesia.

C. Estimates

once a diagnostic and treatment plan has been determined we will generate an estimate of the expected costs. We try our best to make an accurate estimate of the anticipated costs so that there are no surprises on your part. The estimate includes the surgery and associated costs and home medications. Our estimates usually have a low and a high range as there may be uncertainties as to time of anesthesia, implants and injections used and potentially number of days in the hospital. We do our best to stay within the range. However, medical issues being what they are, unexpected issues can arise. If we feel that a procedure or test is needed that will cause us to exceed the estimate then we will try to inform you of any additional costs ahead of time and obtain your permission.

For many orthopedic cases, one set of follow up x-rays are required to ensure healing of bone. An additional estimate will be generated to cover this anticipated cost. However, we do not include the management of complications, additional unexpected x-rays, bandage changes, etc. in the original estimate and subsequent estimates may be needed to cover these additional costs.

D. Deposits and Payment Policy

payment is required at the time of services. A deposit of 50% of the estimated cost is required at the time of admission for surgery. We accept cash, Interac, Visa, MasterCard and CareCredit©.

E. Admitting your pet

your pet should be fasted for 12 hours prior to admission for anesthesia and surgery. Water can be given to your pet until admission. At admission our reception staff will take down details of the best place to reach you during and after the surgery, details of medication and when last given. Most ongoing medications can be given the day of surgery unless they are given with food or were recommended not to be given by your surgeon. If you have any doubts about medication please talk to our staff.

Some pets may be required to stay with us for a number of days. Throughout their visit, your beloved family member will receive around the clock care from our team of veterinarians, technicians and assistants. While we appreciate that you may wish to leave special personal items with your pet, we discourage this for hygienic and contamination reasons. We have an ample supply of bedding and love to keep your pet comfortable! If a special diet is required for your pet, please bring their food with you and ensure it is labeled appropriately.