Whether you’re a new pet owner or have shared your life with animals for years, hearing your pet may need surgery is never easy. Surgery, even when routine, comes with emotional stress and many questions. Understanding what to expect and knowing how common many of these procedures are can help you feel more confident and prepared. At Metrovet Veterinary Clinic in Boston, we perform a wide range of soft tissue and orthopedic surgeries with a strong focus on safety, pain management, and recovery support.
Disclaimer: The following information is for educational purposes and should not replace professional veterinary advice. Always consult your veterinarian for diagnosis, treatment options, and medical decisions related to your pet.
Spay and Neuter Procedures
Spaying (for female pets) and neutering (for male pets) are among the most frequently performed surgeries in veterinary medicine. Beyond controlling the pet population, these procedures offer important health benefits. Spaying reduces the risk of mammary tumors and eliminates the possibility of uterine infections or cancers. Neutering decreases the risk of prostate issues and reduces aggressive or roaming behaviors linked to hormonal influence.
Typically performed when pets are between 4 to 6 months old, spay and neuter surgeries are considered low-risk when pets are healthy. General anesthesia is used, and most pets return home the same day. Recovery is usually straightforward, with rest, a cone to prevent licking, and a check-up in about 10–14 days.
Mass Removals and Biopsies
Lumps and bumps on a pet can be alarming. While many growths are benign, surgical removal is often recommended for diagnostic purposes or to prevent future complications. Once removed, masses are commonly sent to a lab for histopathology, allowing for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.
The complexity of the surgery depends on the size and location of the mass. Some are easily excised under short anesthesia, while others—particularly those near vital structures—may require more involved surgical planning. Recovery varies, but most pets handle these procedures well, especially with good pain control and post-op care.
Dental Surgery and Extractions
Dental disease is one of the most overlooked health issues in pets, yet it can lead to systemic complications if untreated. When dental cleanings reveal advanced decay, infected roots, or fractured teeth, surgical extraction becomes necessary.
These procedures are performed under general anesthesia, allowing the veterinary team to remove diseased teeth, clean the surrounding tissues, and address oral pain. Some extractions are straightforward, while others require incisions into the gum and bone. Postoperative care includes soft food, antibiotics if needed, and close monitoring of eating and behavior.
Many pet owners notice a significant improvement in their pet’s energy and appetite after resolving chronic dental pain.
Foreign Object Removal
Pets, especially young dogs and cats, are curious creatures. Swallowing socks, toys, string, or even rocks isn’t uncommon, and it often leads to an obstructed gastrointestinal tract. If a foreign object cannot pass naturally or poses a risk of perforation, emergency surgery becomes necessary.
This is a major procedure that requires opening the stomach or intestines to retrieve the item. Depending on how long the object has been in the system and whether it has caused damage, the prognosis is usually good with prompt intervention. Recovery involves hospitalization, IV fluids, pain management, and gradual reintroduction to food.
Preventing recurrence involves pet-proofing your home and being mindful of what items your pet has access to, especially when unsupervised.
Bladder Stone Removal (Cystotomy)
Bladder stones can form due to diet, genetics, or chronic urinary tract infections. While some small stones can be dissolved with a special diet, others require surgical removal. A cystotomy involves opening the bladder to extract the stones and is often recommended when pets have recurrent urinary symptoms or obstruction.
Post-op recovery usually includes antibiotics, pain medications, and a temporary urinary diet. Pets typically resume normal urination within a few days. Long-term management focuses on identifying the type of stone and adjusting the pet’s lifestyle to prevent recurrence.
Cruciate Ligament Repair (ACL Surgery)
Tears in the cranial cruciate ligament (the pet equivalent of a torn ACL in humans) are among the most common orthopedic injuries in dogs, particularly large breeds. This ligament stabilizes the knee, and when torn, pets may limp or refuse to bear weight on the affected leg.
There are several surgical options depending on the pet’s size and lifestyle, including the Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy (TPLO) or Lateral Suture Technique. Recovery from cruciate surgery involves restricted activity, physical rehabilitation, and follow-up evaluations to monitor healing.
Although recovery can take several months, outcomes are typically excellent, with many pets regaining full function and mobility.
Wound Repair and Trauma Surgery
Injuries from accidents, fights, or unknown causes often require surgical repair. This can range from suturing a laceration to reconstructing tissue after severe trauma. These cases vary widely in complexity and urgency.
Early intervention often leads to better outcomes. Pets undergoing wound repair may require drains, antibiotics, and regular bandage changes. It’s critical to prevent self-trauma during healing, using e-collars or protective garments when needed.
Hernia Repair
Hernias occur when an organ or tissue protrudes through an abnormal opening. Common hernias in pets include umbilical, inguinal, and diaphragmatic. Some hernias are present from birth, while others result from injury.
Surgical correction involves returning the displaced tissue to its proper position and closing the defect. In younger pets, umbilical hernia repairs are often done during spay or neuter surgery. Diaphragmatic hernias are more serious and may require emergency intervention, especially if they impair breathing.
What to Expect Before and After Surgery
Before any surgery, your veterinarian will conduct a physical exam and recommend pre-anesthetic bloodwork to assess organ function and overall health. Depending on the pet’s age, breed, and condition, additional diagnostics like X-rays or ultrasound may be needed.
On the day of the procedure, anesthesia is tailored to your pet’s individual needs, with constant monitoring throughout surgery and recovery. Post-op, pets are kept comfortable with pain control and often sent home with medications and care instructions.
The recovery period varies by procedure but generally involves restricted activity, wound monitoring, and follow-up visits to ensure proper healing. Knowing what to expect and how to support your pet during recovery is key to a smooth process.
Final Thoughts
Surgery is sometimes necessary to restore a pet’s comfort, health, or quality of life. While no surgery is entirely without risk, advances in veterinary medicine have made these procedures safer and recovery faster. Most importantly, your pet doesn’t go through this alone. With the right team and proactive care, pets can heal well and return to their happy, active lives.
If you’re ever unsure about a recommended surgery or have questions about your pet’s health, speak openly with your veterinarian. Understanding the “why” behind a procedure and the “how” of recovery can ease much of the anxiety that comes with making medical decisions for your companion.
