surgery-instructions

Pre-Operation Instructions

  • Drop-off time at the clinic is 8:15-9 PM
  • Pick-up time is between 5-6 PM
  • All cats must be in separate carriers. Please clearly label the carrier with the animal’s name and your last name using masking or duct tape. If you do not have a carrier, cardboard carriers may be purchased at the SPCA for $5.
  • All dogs must be on leashes.
  • Adult dogs and cats cannot have any food after midnight the night before surgery. Puppies or kittens under six months of age should have a small meal before being dropped off at the SPCA. Water can still be given.
  • Animals must be in good health. If your pet is showing any signs of illness such as coughing, sneezing, runny eyes or diarrhea they will be declined for surgery. See your regular vet for care first, and then re-schedule surgery when your pet is well.
  • If your pet is already up-to-date on vaccinations, please bring your vaccination records with you to the appointment. A RABIES VACCINE IS REQUIRED BY VIRGINIA LAW.
  • If licking or chewing of the suture area is noted or anticipated, you may purchase an e-collar for your pet for $10.
  • Payment in full is to be made at drop-off by cash, check or charge.
  • It is very important that you show up at the appointed time. If you do not show up for an appointment, there will be a reschedule fee of $25.

Post-Operation Instructions

You will be given written post-operation instructions on discharge. However, to plan for the care of your pet after surgery, please prepare for the following:

  • Pick-up time is between 5-6 PM
  • Pets should primarily be kept indoors where they can stay clean, dry and comfortable. Please limit their activity; no climbing stairs, running, jumping, rowdy play, swimming, or other strenuous activity during the 10-14 day recovery window.
  • No bathing during this period.
  • Dogs must be walked on a leash.
  • Light meals only the evening of surgery with water available. Feed normally on the next day.
  • Check the incision site daily. Do not allow pet to lick or chew at the incision site. If this occurs, an Elizabethan collar, t-shirt or topical spray (Bitter Apple) should be used. Slight redness at the incision may be normal for a few days after surgery. However, if you notice irritation, discharge, swelling, a gap in the incision or worsening redness, please contact the SPCA Clinic at (434) 973-5959, ext. 206/207.
  • Unless indicated otherwise, your pet does not have external sutures. All sutures are absorbable and the outer layer of skin is held together with surgical glue. Do not clean or apply topical ointment to the incision site. Females and males will have tattoo ink applied near the incision.