Patient Checklist

Getting ready for 
your pet’s surgery

Our simple patient checklist will help put your mind at rest and ensure you and your pet are prepared when you visit us. Our team is here if you have any questions.

Patient checklist

Before surgery

Complete Forms

Make sure all necessary forms are signed and returned at least 24 hours before the surgery. We’re here to assist if you need any help with this.

Appointment Confirmation

We will call to confirm your appointment 24-48 hours prior and review forms. We’ll also collect the deposit for the surgery during this call.

Deposit

The lower end of the estimated cost will be collected as a deposit the day before surgery.

Feeding Instructions

Feed your pet their usual dinner, but no food after midnight the night before the surgery. Water is okay in moderation until drop-off.

Maintain Routine

Try to keep your pet’s routine as normal as possible to minimize stress before surgery.

Medication Check

If your pet takes medications, please contact us at least a day before surgery to confirm they are safe to take on the morning of surgery.

Grooming

Give your pet a bath or grooming session before surgery, as they won’t be able to bathe for 8 weeks post-surgery.

Home Preparation

Set up a comfortable, restricted area for your pet’s recovery, such as a large crate, small room or a fenced area using an x-pen. If you have slippery floors, consider using yoga mats for better traction.

Day of surgery

Drop-Off

Bring your pet to the hospital between 7:00-8:30 am. The surgeon will determine the surgery order after all pets are checked in.

No Personal Items

Please leave blankets, toys, and other personal items at home. We will make sure your pet is comfortable.

Medication List

Prepare a list of your pet’s current medications, dosages, and quantities.

Food

We will provide food if needed, but if your pet is on a special diet, bring 1-2 servings if we have indicated they will need to stay overnight.

Text updates

Our team sends a text message when your pet goes into surgery and endeavors to send text updates during your pet’s stay.

Surgery timing

Surgeries are performed from 9 am – 5 pm. Your surgeon will call you as soon as the surgery is finished to review the surgery and set a pick up time.

Picking up your pet

Pick-up

We will give you an estimated pick-up time at drop-off, but it may change. We will stay in touch to arrange the final pick-up time. Most pets go home the same day, but some may need to stay overnight for further monitoring.

Discharge Process

A surgical technician will review detailed discharge instructions with you, which usually takes 20-30 minutes. This will also include scheduling follow-up appointments and completing the final payment.

Home Medications

We will discuss your pet’s medication schedule and answer any questions you might have.

IV Catheter Bandage

Your pet might have a bandage over the IV catheter site, which you can remove at home.

Evening after surgery

The Ride Home

Bring blankets for padding and warmth, and we’ll provide a pee-pad for the ride home. Your pet will need lifting out of the car so prepare accordingly.

Post-Op Behavior

Your pet may be sleepy or wobbly after surgery. It’s normal for them to find a comfortable spot to rest and sleep. They might whine due to disorientation, not necessarily discomfort.

Feeding

Your pet may not have a big appetite immediately after surgery. Offer them 1/4 to 1/2 of a normal meal and allow a few days for their appetite to return to normal.

Non-Urgent Questions

Feel free to call or text us with any non-urgent questions. We will respond within 24 hours. Calls received after-hours will be addressed the next business day. We are closed on weekends.

Emergency Contact

For urgent concerns, contact your primary veterinarian or the nearest emergency veterinary clinic.

The following day

Check-In Call

We will call within 24 hours after the surgery to check on your pet’s first night of recovery. You can ask any questions or raise any concerns.

Activity Restrictions

Your pet will need at least two weeks of rest at home, with limited activity. Orthopedic patients may require 6 weeks to 4 months before returning to full activity.

Potty Walks

Your pet should urinate within 24 hours of being home. Bowel movements may take a bit longer due to the effects of anesthesia.

Weight Bearing

Encourage gentle toe touching within the first few days to prevent muscle atrophy. Refer to your discharge instructions for specific exercise and walk schedules.

We’re here for you and your pet, offering support and care throughout the entire surgical process. Don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns.

Get expert support

Our caring team is here to guide you every step of the way. If you have questions or need more information, we’re ready to help.

Request a consultation