5 Fast Facts to Prepare Your Pet for Surgery
Surgery is a big step for any pet—and for the devoted owners who love and care for them. At Stitches Veterinary Surgery in Long Beach, our job is to make this journey as smooth, safe, and stress-free as possible. As a specialty surgery hospital, our team wants every family to feel confident and ready before their pet’s procedure. Here are five fast facts to help you prepare your furry companion for a successful surgery day.
1. Clear Communication Sets You Up for Success
Before your pet’s procedure, our Stitches Veterinary Surgery team will schedule a pre-surgical consultation. This is the perfect time to ask questions and share any concerns. Write down a list of topics you want to discuss, like anesthesia protocols, pain management, and recovery expectations. Clear communication ensures we’re aligned on your pet’s needs, and it helps reduce anxiety for you and your pet.
2. Follow Pre-Surgical Instructions—Especially About Fasting
Before most operations, pets must not eat for 8-12 hours. This is crucial to prevent complications from anesthesia. Make sure to follow pre-op instructions closely, including water and medication guidelines. If your pet takes regular meds, ask your surgical team whether to continue them on surgery day. At Stitches Veterinary Surgery, ensuring a safe and smooth surgery begins the night before!
3. Prepare a Comfortable Recovery Space at Home
After surgery, your pet will need a calm place to recover. Set up a clean, quiet space with a soft bed, easy access to water, and minimal distractions. Remove obstacles or hazards to prevent slips and falls, especially after orthopedic or minimally invasive surgery. Consider using pet gates to limit jumping or stairs during the initial recovery period.
4. Know the Signs of Pain or Complications
Even after minor surgical procedures, it’s vital to watch for subtle signs of discomfort: changes in appetite, restlessness, excessive licking at the incision, and whining are common but sometimes overlooked. If you notice swelling, bleeding, or signs of pain, contact Stitches Veterinary Surgery promptly. Early intervention promotes faster recovery and helps us provide the best care possible.
5. Plan Your Pet’s Surgery Day Logistics
On the big day, pets should come in calm and secure. Bring your cell phone and a list of emergency contacts. Carry your pet on a leash or in a carrier—never allow off-leash wandering before or after surgery! We recommend arriving 10-15 minutes early for check-in at our Long Beach hospital. Our friendly staff will review the plan and make sure you’re comfortable before you say “see you soon” to your beloved pet.
Preparing your pet for surgery is about teamwork, trust, and the right information. At Stitches Veterinary Surgery, we take pride in guiding you through every step of the process with knowledge, compassion, and surgical excellence. For more answers to common questions, or to schedule a surgical consult with a board-certified surgeon, visit Stitches Veterinary Surgery—Long Beach’s trusted leader in advanced veterinary care.