Understanding Common Pet Surgeries at Skyway Animal Hospital in St. Petersburg

What Every Pet Owner Should Know About Pet Surgery

When your pet requires surgery, it’s natural to have concerns. Understanding the reasons behind common procedures, their benefits, and post-operative care can help pet owners feel more confident and prepared. At Skyway Animal Hospital in St. Petersburg, we offer a range of surgical services, from routine procedures to complex surgeries, ensuring your pet receives expert care.

Choosing a trusted veterinary team is essential for your pet’s safety and recovery.

Common Types of Pet Surgery at Skyway Animal Hospital

Our veterinary team is trained in advanced surgical techniques and uses modern equipment to ensure the best outcomes for every pet. Below are some of the most common surgical procedures we perform:

Spay and Neuter Procedures

Spaying and neutering offer significant health and behavioral benefits for pets, including:

  • Reducing the risk of reproductive cancers, such as testicular, ovarian, and mammary tumors.
  • Eliminating the risk of pyometra, a life-threatening uterine infection in female pets.
  • Curbing unwanted behaviors like roaming, aggression, and territorial marking.

Recovery is typically smooth, and pet owners can assist by keeping their pet calm, monitoring the incision site, and preventing excessive licking or scratching.

Learn more about spaying and neutering benefits from the AAHA Spay or Neuter Resources.

Dental Surgery for Pets

Dental health is vital to prevent infections, pain, and systemic disease. Common dental procedures include:

  • Tooth extractions for severely decayed or fractured teeth.
  • Treatment of advanced periodontal disease to prevent bacteria from spreading to vital organs.
  • Removal of oral tumors or abnormalities that may interfere with eating or cause pain.

Signs your pet may need dental surgery include bad breath, difficulty eating, excessive drooling, or pawing at the mouth. Routine dental care, including at-home brushing and professional cleanings, can prevent many of these issues.

Orthopedic Surgeries

Orthopedic surgeries address injuries and conditions affecting the bones, joints, and ligaments. One of the most common procedures we perform is Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy (TPLO) for cruciate ligament injuries.

Signs that your pet may need orthopedic surgery include:

  • Limping or lameness
  • Difficulty standing or climbing stairs
  • Swelling around joints

Without intervention, pets may suffer chronic pain and mobility loss. Learn more about cruciate ligament injuries and TPLO surgery at Colorado State University and TPLO Information.

Mass Removals and Cancer Surgery

Pets can develop benign or malignant tumors that require surgical removal. While some growths are harmless, others can spread and pose serious health risks. Early detection through routine check-ups is crucial.

Surgical tumor removal is often recommended to:

  • Prevent cancer from spreading to other organs.
  • Improve quality of life by eliminating pain or discomfort.
  • Diagnose growths through biopsy to determine treatment plans.

Learn more about different types of cancer in pets from the AAHA.

Exploratory Surgery

When diagnostic tests like X-rays and bloodwork don’t provide clear answers, exploratory surgery may be necessary. This procedure helps veterinarians:

  • Identify foreign objects causing blockages in the stomach or intestines.
  • Assess internal organs for abnormalities, infections, or tumors.
  • Obtain biopsies for accurate disease diagnosis.

Learn more about exploratory surgery in pets from PetCoach.

Preparing for Your Pet’s Surgery

Proper preparation helps ensure a safe procedure and smooth recovery. Here’s what pet owners should expect before surgery:

  • Pre-surgical consultation – The veterinarian will assess your pet’s health and discuss the procedure, risks, and expected recovery.
  • Fasting instructions – Most pets should not eat for 8-12 hours before surgery to prevent anesthesia complications.
  • Anesthesia safety – Bloodwork may be recommended to screen for underlying conditions that could affect anesthesia response.

Our veterinary team takes every precaution to ensure your pet’s safety during surgery.

Post-Surgery Recovery: What to Expect

After surgery, proper care is essential for preventing complications and ensuring a smooth healing process.

Key Aspects of Post-Operative Care

  • Pain Management – Your veterinarian may prescribe pain medication to keep your pet comfortable.
  • Wound Care – Monitor the surgical incision for redness, swelling, or discharge.
  • Activity Restriction – Prevent jumping, running, or rough play to avoid reopening the incision.
  • Diet Adjustments – Offer soft food if your pet has had dental surgery or an upset stomach post-anesthesia.

Follow-up visits allow our team to monitor healing and remove sutures if needed.

 

FAQs About Pet Surgery in St. Petersburg

What is the typical recovery time after surgery?

Recovery varies by procedure. Spay/neuter surgeries typically take 7-10 days, while orthopedic procedures may require several weeks of restricted activity.

Are there risks associated with pet surgery?

As with any surgery, risks include anesthesia reactions, infection, or delayed healing. Our team takes all necessary precautions to minimize risks.

How can I financially prepare for my pet’s surgery?

Discuss costs and payment options with our team. Some pet owners use pet insurance or financing plans to help manage expenses.

Why Choose Skyway Animal Hospital for Your Pet’s Surgery?

At Skyway Animal Hospital, we prioritize:

  • Experienced veterinary surgeons trained in advanced techniques.
  • State-of-the-art surgical equipment to ensure precision and safety.
  • Compassionate, personalized care to ease pet and owner concerns.

Supporting Your Pet’s Health Through Surgery and Beyond

Our goal is to provide expert surgical care while ensuring a smooth recovery process. Whether your pet needs a routine spay/neuter, emergency surgery, or a complex procedure, we are here to help.

If your pet needs surgery or a consultation, contact us today:
Request an Appointment

With early intervention, quality veterinary care, and proper recovery support, your pet can enjoy a long, healthy, and active life!