Our top priority for your pet's surgery is to keep them
SAFE & HAPPY
We use state-of-the-art surgical equipment and prioritize educating our clients, so you know the appropriate aftercare for your pet.
Common Soft Tissue Surgeries
Spaying & Neutering
Mass Removal
Laceration Repair
Ocular Procedures
Emergency Surgery
Laser Surgery for Your Pet
Harlingen offers the latest in surgical technology, including state-of-the-art laser surgery. The benefits of veterinary laser surgery include:
- Less bleeding—The laser seals small blood vessels, resulting in a drastic reduction in bleeding compared to use of a conventional scalpel.
- Reduced pain—The laser beam seals nerve endings for less swelling and pain, giving patients a far more comfortable post-operative recovery.
- Minimized risk of infection—The laser beam efficiently kills bacteria, producing a sterilizing effect.
- Rapid recovery time—Less bleeding, pain, and infection lead to less stress and improved recovery time for patients.
Laser surgery is used quite often for mass removals, and ear, eyelid, and oral surgical procedures
Cat Anesthesia
Cat acupuncture is a safe and effective treatment modality that allows the veterinarians here at Harlingen Veterinary Clinic use to address a variety of feline health issues and reduce pain in our feline patients.
What To Know When Your Cat Needs Anesthesia
There may be a time when your cat will require a procedure or surgery for his continued health. At the time of surgery your cat will require anesthesia which will be carefully administered and monitored by our veterinary staff. Knowing the basics about how anesthesia will be is used in cat surgery and the recovery basics will help to ease your mind while kitty is under our care.
Cat anesthesia may be deemed necessary when a procedure needs to be performed where the cat will be immobilized or if the procedure would otherwise cause pain or distress that is beyond what the cat can comfortably tolerate. We want you to feel absolutely comfortable with our hospital, staff and recommendations and anytime a cat sedative is being recommended we want to reassure you that our veterinary staff is here to answer any questions and provide any assistance that will make the procedure easier for you and your cat.
Because cats have specific needs, it is important to make sure that veterinary anesthesia protocols are followed properly to prepare your cat for surgery. We make it our priority to ensure that your cat is in optimal health before any cat surgery is performed. Therefore, our veterinarian will always recommend some diagnostic testing before the procedure to ensure that we have a complete picture of your cat’s physical health.
Why Would Your Cat Need Anesthesia?
Cat anesthesia is used in association with any type of procedure where the cat needs to be immobilized or during any type of surgery where the cat would otherwise feel pain. Cat sedatives allow us keep your cat perfectly still and pain free during the surgery. During anesthesia, your cat will be in an unconscious state and will not feel any discomfort.
Risks Associated With Giving Cats Anesthesia
There are always risks that come with any surgery, but the risks are very low thanks to the experienced veterinary team here at Harlingen Veterinary Clinic. However with proper care and supervision there are virtually no risks of complications due to the use of a cat sedative. Our veterinary staff ensures that risks are minimized by performing careful and consistent monitoring throughout the entire time feline patients are under cat anesthesia.
What To Expect The Day Your Cat Receives Veterinary Anesthesia
You will receive a specific set of instructions from your veterinarian before your cat receives cat anesthesia or undergoes any surgical procedure. We will discuss with you any risks of veterinary anesthesia. Here are some things to keep in mind as you arrive with your cat for the surgery:
- Fasting is required the night before any cat sedatives are administered (unless otherwise specified by your veterinarian)
- Follow any specific directions given to you by your veterinarian
- Depending on the type of procedure and your cat’s condition, our veterinarian may recommend additional prescription pain medications while your cat recovers
- Ask any questions you may have and our veterinary staff will provide answers and help to ease your mind before or after the cat surgery is performed
Monitoring Anesthetized Cats
The veterinary surgical team will monitor your cat very carefully during and after the cat surgery is performed and throughout the time that they are under the influence of a cat sedative. After your cat comes out of surgery, our veterinary staff will:
- Monitor your cat’s heart rate, temperature, and respiration rate
- Keep an IV catheter in place to provide fluid support should there be any fluctuations in blood pressure
- Make sure your cat is breathing well and resting comfortably
*The risks of cat anesthesia are very low with proper monitoring.
What To Expect As Cats Come Out Of Anesthesia
The veterinary team at Harlingen Veterinary Clinic will continue to monitor your cat’s vital signs, heart rate and blood pressure as it comes out of surgery, awakens from any cat sedatives used and until your cat is ready to return home. Your cat may feel sedated for a period of time after it goes home. Our staff will talk to you about your cat’s pain management plan. Your cat may need pain medication for several days and you will receive specific instructions before your cat is released. If you should have any questions or concerns, please call Harlingen Veterinary Clinic right away. Some cats may not regain their appetite until they next day. Always follow all instructions given to you by your veterinary team to ensure your cat’s full recovery.
Cat Surgery
Our facilities, equipment and staff offer your cat the best option for a successful surgery and recovery.
Understanding Why A Cat Surgery Has Been Recommended
At Harlingen Veterinary Clinic, our primary concern is for the health and well being of your cat. Unfortunately, there may arise a circumstance when a surgical procedure is in the best interest of your feline friend, and in these times you will need to make that decision. We understand what that feels like, and our veterinarians and staff are here for you, too.
If a cat surgery is being recommended, our veterinarian will have sound medical reasoning and it is important that you understand what surgical procedure is being recommended and why, how the procedure will be performed and when it should take place.
There are two categories of cat surgeries, elective and urgent/emergency.
Elective cat surgeries include:
- Spay
- Neuter
- Dental extractions
Urgent cat surgeries include:
- Skin lacerations or abscess
- Intestinal obstruction from a foreign body
- Skin cancers
- Fracture repair
Most Modern Cat Surgeries Are Fairly Low Risk
Elective surgeries are performed when your cat generally considered healthy, thereby greatly reducing possible complications. However, today even urgent cat surgeries carry significantly lower risks due to improvements in modern medicine and vast improvements in the standards of veterinary care. Thanks to an extensive list of pre-surgical procedures such as exams, premedication, intravenous fluids, pain control and monitoring of vital signs; as well as improved protocols during surgery including the use of advanced equipment which monitors vital signs such as body temperature, heart rate, blood pressure, CO2 levels, oxygen levels and continuous monitoring by a knowledgeable veterinary technician all serve to reduce the risks associated with cat surgeries.
We Follow The Highest Standards Of Veterinary Care
At Harlingen Veterinary Clinic, we are committed to the highest standards of excellence in Veterinary medicine. This commitment to excellent care is why we are an American Animal Hospital Association Accredited veterinary clinic. This accreditation is awarded to only the top 12% of veterinary hospitals in the nation. Surgical protocols at AAHA-accredited clinics include:
- Pre-surgical assessments. Prior to surgery, the veterinary team verifies the specifics of the procedure; completes a physical exam of the patient; and ensures blood tests have been completed, documented, and reviewed by the veterinarian. Among other things, these precautions help determine if your pet is at risk for complications while under general anesthesia.
- Dedicated surgical suites. To prevent post-surgical infections and cross-contamination, surgeries are performed in a room used only for sterile surgical procedures.
- Surgical attire. Staff must wear disposable caps and masks when entering the surgical suite. Anyone involved in the procedure itself must also wear sterile gowns and single-use gloves.
- Sterile packs and equipment. Surgical instruments are carefully cleaned, sterilized, and wrapped prior to each procedure to help prevent infections.
Making The Decision To Proceed With Cat Surgery
The decision to do surgery involves a discussion with the owner about possible complications and all factors to be considered when deciding what is best for your cat. Factors to think about when considering cat surgery include:
- Age and general health of the cat
- Potential complications from the surgery
- Potential outcome if surgery is not done
- Recovery time and post op care required by the owner
While the decision to have your cat undergo surgery is completely in your hands, our veterinarians will do their best to make sure you feel supported with information to make the best decision. We are here to help you make an informed and compassionate decision that is in the best interest of your cat.
Cat Pre-Surgical Instructions
Cat pre-surgical instructions vary depending on the type of procedure being performed, and whether or not the cat surgery is emergency or planned. However, we will provide you with a set of cat pre-surgical instructions that can be used as a general guideline for preoperative preparations:
- We recommend that you fast your cat the night before surgery but allow them to drink water through the night. Generally, this involves simply picking up your cat’s food but allowing them access to water until you depart for the veterinary clinic.
- Be on time for your feline surgery, There is an important pre-surgical process that requires your cat be in the clinic when scheduled.
- Listen carefully to post surgical instruction from your veterinary care team and call the clinic if you have any questions regarding the post op care for your cat.
Cat Anesthesia
Safe cat anesthesia requires that close attention be paid to the patient before during and after the anesthesthetic. At Harlingen Veterinary Clinic, we treat every cat according to its specific medical and surgical needs. Each anesthesia is tailored to each patient. We adhere to very stringent guidelines for administering cat anesthesia before, during and if necessary, after surgery. These guidelines come from the American Animal Hospital Association, a veterinary organization that only accredits approximately 12% of all veterinary practices nationwide. For example, the AAHA guidelines require that we first do blood work, and then depending upon your cat’s overall health, other tests to ensure there is not an overt risk of complications from receiving cat anesthesia.
Cat anesthesia is extremely safe when the patients are stabilized before the procedure and all effort is made to have a good understanding of the cat’s medical condition before surgery. There is always some risk to anesthesia, however, the risk is extremely low when being performed by a highly qualified veterinarian and surgical team.
Recovery from surgery depends upon the length of the surgery, the age of the cat and the amount of pain medication required to keep your cat free from any post operative pain. Some things to be aware of post anesthesia include:
- It is normal for your cat to be groggy or disoriented for a few hours after receiving a general anesthetic
- Your cat might sleep deeper or longer for 24 hours after receiving cat anesthesia
- Your cat might be a duller version of itself for 24 hours after anesthesia due to the sedating effects of anesthesia
- Review with your veterinarian any feeding and/or comfort tips they can provide depending on what kind of anesthetic was used, and what surgical procedure was performed.
Always remember to call us if you have any questions about your cat’s recovery.
Post Surgical Care For Cats
We will tailor all post surgical instructions for your cat depending upon the procedure and your cat’s needs. However, we will provide you with a set of cat surgery recovery instructions that can be used as a general guideline for postoperative care:
- Pick up time appointment to review the procedure and post surgical care needs
- For routine procedures, most cats can go home a few hours after waking up from anesthesia
- For advanced or emergency procedures, extended stays of 24 hours or longer may be necessary in order to monitor vital signs and deliver critical care
- Make sure you have a good understanding of post surgical instructions. Remember, all questions are good. Some things to review at pick up time include:
- The administering of medication, food and water
- The changing of bandages, care of stitches, etc.
- Assisted care tips
- Follow up appointment scheduling
- At home, allow your cat to recover in a warm, quiet space of its choosing (if possible) to increase comfort and reduce stress
- For the first 24 hours, monitor your cat closely as it recovers. Always call if you have any concerns
- Keep cat indoor for at least 24 hours to supervise
- Suture care (stitches): Most surgeries will require some sutures. Your veterinary staff will review you the after-care which will include keeping the cats from licking the incision.
- Some cats will be sent home with an Elizabethan Collar to ensure they do not lick or bite out the sutures
- Monitor the incision for possible signs of infection which will include redness or swelling
- Continue to follow your cat’s recovery program until told to alter or discontinue it by your veterinarian
Canine Surgical Procedures
Our facilities, expert surgeons and technicians will make sure your dog is cared for before, during and after surgery.
What To Know When Dog Surgery Has Been Recommended
At Harlingen Veterinary Clinic, we understand that it can be frightening to receive the news that a dog surgery is being recommended. It is important to understand that it is a recommendation that our veterinarians do not take lightly. If one of our veterinarians is recommending a surgical procedure, rest assured that it is with the best interest of your dog in mind. It is important to us that you understand the reasons as to why a surgical procedure is being recommended and are able to comfortably make the right decisions regarding your dog’s health.
Canine surgical procedures fall into two categories where your dog is concerned, elective procedures and those that are urgently necessary.
Most common elective dog surgery procedures include:
- Spay
- Neuter
- Dental extractions
- Benign growths of the skin
Some common urgent care surgical procedures include:
- Skin lacerations or abscess
- Intestinal obstruction from a foreign body
- Internal bleeding
- Torn cruciate or ACL ruptures
- Fracture repair
- Malignant skin tumors
- Bladder stones/urethral blockages
- Spleen cancer
Most Dog Surgeries Are Considered To Be Low Risk
Surgery always carries with it numerous concerns ranging from potential complications to prognosis for recovery. However, because veterinary medicine has progressed to encompass all modern considerations, the risks are very low to your dog having any major complications from most surgeries.
We Follow The Highest Standards Of Veterinary Care
At Harlingen Veterinary Clinic, we are committed to the highest standards of excellence in Veterinary medicine. This commitment to excellent care is why we are an American Animal Hospital Association Accredited veterinary clinic. This accreditation is awarded to only the top 12% of veterinary hospitals in the nation. Surgical protocols at AAHA-accredited clinics include:
- Pre-surgical assessments. Prior to surgery, the veterinary team verifies the specifics of the procedure; completes a physical exam of the patient; and ensures blood tests have been completed, documented, and reviewed by the veterinarian. Among other things, these precautions help determine if your pet is at risk for complications while under general anesthesia.
- Dedicated surgical suites. To prevent post-surgical infections and cross-contamination, surgeries are performed in a room used only for sterile surgical procedures.
- Surgical attire. Staff must wear disposable caps and masks when entering the surgical suite. Anyone involved in the procedure itself must also wear sterile gowns and single-use gloves.
- Sterile packs and equipment. Surgical instruments are carefully cleaned, sterilized, and wrapped prior to each procedure to help prevent infections.
*https://www.aaha.org/pet_owner/about_aaha/why_accreditation_matters/abou…
Making The Decision To Proceed With Dog Surgery
The decision to do surgery involves a discussion with the owner about possible complications and all factors to be considered when deciding what is best for your dog. Factors to think about when considering dog surgery include:
- Age and general health of the dog
- Potential complications from the surgery
- Potential outcome if surgery is not done
- Recovery Time and post op care required by the owner
- Physical Therapy/Rehabilitation
Although the decision to have your dog undergo surgery is ultimately up to you, our veterinary team will present you with all the facts and possible outcomes to help you make an informed, ethical and compassionate decision that is in the best interest of both you and your loyal canine friend.
Dog Pre-Surgical Instructions
Dog pre-surgical instructions vary depending on the type of procedure being performed, and whether or not the dog surgery is emergency or planned. However, we will provide you with a set of dog pre-surgical instructions that can be used as a general guideline for preoperative preparations:
- Follow your vet’s recommendations for feeding and drinking the day before and/or morning of the surgery
- Most surgeries are done on a fasted dog. In general, you will be asked to not feed your dog after midnight the night before the procedure
- Most dogs are allowed to drink until the morning of the surgery
- Be on time for your canine surgery, as most veterinarians schedule surgeries very tightly, and delays potentially threaten the wellbeing of the tardy dog, as well as the other dogs in line
- Listen carefully to post surgical instruction from your veterinary care team and call hospital if you have any questions regarding the post op care for your dog
Dog Anesthesia
At Harlingen Veterinary Clinic, we adhere to very stringent guidelines for administering dog anesthesia before, during and if necessary, after surgery. These guidelines come from the American Animal Hospital Association, a veterinary organization that only accredits approximately 12% of all veterinary practices nationwide. For example, the AAHA guidelines require that we first do blood work, and then depending upon your dog’s overall health, other tests to ensure there is not an overt risk of complications from receiving dog anesthesia.
Dog anesthesia is extremely safe when the patients are stabilized before the procedure and all effort is made to have a good understanding of the dog’s medical condition before surgery. There is always some risk to anesthesia, however, the risk is extremely low when being performed by a highly qualified veterinarian and surgical team.
Recovery from surgery depends upon the length of the surgery, the age of the dog and the amount of pain medication required to keep your dog free from any post operative pain. Some things to be aware of post anesthesia include:
- It is normal for your dog to be groggy or disoriented for a few hours after receiving a general anesthetic
- Your dog might sleep deeper or longer for 24 hours after receiving dog anesthesia
- Your dog might be a duller version of itself for 24 hours after anesthesia due to the dulling effects of anesthesia
- You might need to help your dog balance during feeding and bathroom breaks for the first 24 hours after surgery
- Consult your veterinarian for any feeding and/or comfort tips they can provide depending on what kind of dog anesthesia was used, and what surgical procedure was performed
Always remember to call us if you have any questions about your dog’s recovery.
Post Surgical Care For Dogs
Just like dog pre-surgery instructions, dog surgery recovery protocols and care vary depending on the type of procedure performed, and whether or not the surgery was an emergency. However, we will provide you with a set of dog surgery recovery instructions that can be used as a general guideline for postoperative care:
- If you are leaving your dog during surgery, make sure you know when you should return for pickup
- For routine procedures, most dogs can go home a few hours after waking up from anesthesia
- If you did not do so beforehand, make sure to receive and understand all recovery information, including:
- The administering of medication, food and water
- The changing of bandages, cleaning of stitches, etc.
- Assisted care tips
- Follow up appointment scheduling
- At home, allow your dog to recover in a warm, quiet space of its choosing (if possible) to increase comfort and reduce stress
- For the first 24 hours, monitor your dog closely as it recovers. Always call if you have any concerns
- Limit outdoor exposure for at least 24 hours to supervised and if necessary, assisted bathroom breaks
- Consult your veterinarian for more information on the necessity and duration of limited or restricted outdoor exposure
- Suture care (stitches): Most surgeries will require some sutures. Your veterinary staff will review you the after-care which will include keeping the dogs from licking the incision.
- Most dogs will be sent home with an Elizabethan Collar to ensure they do not lick or bite out the sutures
- Monitor the incision for possible signs of infection which will include redness or swelling
- Continue to follow your dog’s recovery program until told to alter or discontinue it by your veterinarian
