What to expect and how we keep your pet safe, At Weston Creek Vet Hospital, your pet’s safety and comfort are our top priorities during surgery. Here’s what to expect before, during, and after the procedure.
Before Surgery Fasting:
- No food after 8:00 PM the night before surgery.
- Water is allowed overnight but should be removed in the morning.
This reduces the risk of vomiting under anaesthesia. - Where your pet has been diagnosed with a chronic illness or prescribed on going medications, follow the direction of your consulting vet or HERE you can find a list to the most common variances.
Morning of Surgery
- Admit time: Between 7:30–8:00 AM.
- Our reception team will help complete paperwork and answer any questions.
- A vet health check is performed before surgery.
- Blood testing may be done to guide anaesthesia.
Pre-Anaesthetic Safety:
To minimise risk, especially in older pets, we recommend a Pre-Anaesthetic Blood Profile to check organ function. IV fluids are also given to support circulation and reduce anaesthetic risk.
During Surgery
- Pre-medication is given to prevent paid, reduce stress and reduce the amount of anaesthetic needed.
- A breathing tube is placed for oxygen and gaseous anaesthetic.
- A vet nurse monitors your pet with advanced equipment (heart rate, oxygen, blood pressure, etc.).
- The surgical area is clipped and sterilised; your pet is moved into the surgical theatre and then draped to keep the area sterile.
- The veterinarian performs the procedure in full sterile conditions.
After Surgery
- Anaesthetic is stopped and oxygen is continued to aid recovery.
- Pain relief is provided as needed.
- Your pet recovers in a warm, quiet area with soft bedding.
- Once alert. Your pet is given a toilet break and small amounts of water and food, if appropriate.
- Most pets go home later that day, unless an overnight stay is required (e.g. orthopaedic cases).
Going Home
When you collect your pet, we’ll go over:
- Post-op care & activity restrictions
- Feeding & medication instructions
- A follow-up appointment, if needed, to check healing or remove sutures.
Have Questions?
If you’re concerned about anaesthesia or surgery, call us on (02) 6288 4944 — our team is happy to assist.
