Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “board certified” mean?
A board-certified veterinary surgeon is a veterinarian who has completed an intensive, multi-year surgical residency program (typically three years) with advanced training in both surgery and anesthesia, as outlined by the American College of Veterinary Surgeons (ACVS). After meeting all residency requirements, the individual must pass a rigorous board examination that tests knowledge and skill across all aspects of veterinary surgery. Only after successfully completing this process does a veterinarian earn the distinction of being “board certified” and become recognized as a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Surgeons (DACVS). This designation reflects the highest level of surgical training and expertise in the veterinary field.
What does “board certified” mean?
A board-certified veterinary surgeon is a veterinarian who has completed an intensive, multi-year surgical residency program (typically three years) with advanced training in both surgery and anesthesia, as outlined by the American College of Veterinary Surgeons (ACVS). After meeting all residency requirements, the individual must pass a rigorous board examination that tests knowledge and skill across all aspects of veterinary surgery. Only after successfully completing this process does a veterinarian earn the distinction of being “board certified” and become recognized as a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Surgeons (DACVS). This designation reflects the highest level of surgical training and expertise in the veterinary field.
What does “board certified” mean?
A board-certified veterinary surgeon is a veterinarian who has completed an intensive, multi-year surgical residency program (typically three years) with advanced training in both surgery and anesthesia, as outlined by the American College of Veterinary Surgeons (ACVS). After meeting all residency requirements, the individual must pass a rigorous board examination that tests knowledge and skill across all aspects of veterinary surgery. Only after successfully completing this process does a veterinarian earn the distinction of being “board certified” and become recognized as a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Surgeons (DACVS). This designation reflects the highest level of surgical training and expertise in the veterinary field.
Why does board certification matter?
As board-certified surgeons, we bring an extra level of confidence to every procedure. Our training includes multiple years of intensive, hands-on experience under the guidance of seasoned surgeons before ever practicing independently. This exclusive focus on surgery not only sharpens our skills but also translates into lower complication rates and better outcomes for your pet.
Why does board certification matter?
As board-certified surgeons, we bring an extra level of confidence to every procedure. Our training includes multiple years of intensive, hands-on experience under the guidance of seasoned surgeons before ever practicing independently. This exclusive focus on surgery not only sharpens our skills but also translates into lower complication rates and better outcomes for your pet.
Why does board certification matter?
As board-certified surgeons, we bring an extra level of confidence to every procedure. Our training includes multiple years of intensive, hands-on experience under the guidance of seasoned surgeons before ever practicing independently. This exclusive focus on surgery not only sharpens our skills but also translates into lower complication rates and better outcomes for your pet.
What do I need to do to schedule an appointment?
We are a referral-only hospital, which means your primary care veterinarian or emergency doctor must first submit a referral form before an appointment can be scheduled. Your first visit with us will be a consultation, during which the surgeon will examine your pet, review the diagnosis, and discuss both surgical and non-surgical treatment options. We will also cover procedural costs, potential risks, recovery expectations, and answer any questions you may have. Consultations typically last 30 to 60 minutes, depending on your pet’s condition.
What do I need to do to schedule an appointment?
We are a referral-only hospital, which means your primary care veterinarian or emergency doctor must first submit a referral form before an appointment can be scheduled. Your first visit with us will be a consultation, during which the surgeon will examine your pet, review the diagnosis, and discuss both surgical and non-surgical treatment options. We will also cover procedural costs, potential risks, recovery expectations, and answer any questions you may have. Consultations typically last 30 to 60 minutes, depending on your pet’s condition.
What do I need to do to schedule an appointment?
We are a referral-only hospital, which means your primary care veterinarian or emergency doctor must first submit a referral form before an appointment can be scheduled. Your first visit with us will be a consultation, during which the surgeon will examine your pet, review the diagnosis, and discuss both surgical and non-surgical treatment options. We will also cover procedural costs, potential risks, recovery expectations, and answer any questions you may have. Consultations typically last 30 to 60 minutes, depending on your pet’s condition.
Is there anything I need to do before surgery?
We recommend getting your pet ready in advance for the lifestyle changes that will follow surgery. This preparation helps reduce stress and makes recovery smoother. • Confinement: Introduce your pet to a safe, confined area where they cannot jump on furniture or run to the door when someone knocks. • Leash Training: If your pet is not accustomed to a leash, begin practicing now so they are comfortable during recovery. • Sleeping Arrangements: If your pet typically sleeps in bed with you, start getting them used to resting in their new confined area. • Activity Restriction: Begin limiting high-impact activities to reduce the risk of further injury before surgery. If surgery is elected at your appointment, we will provide doses of omeprazole (an antacid) to reduce stomach acid and a probiotic to support gut health. These are started prior to surgery to help prepare your pet’s system for anesthesia and recovery.
Is there anything I need to do before surgery?
We recommend getting your pet ready in advance for the lifestyle changes that will follow surgery. This preparation helps reduce stress and makes recovery smoother. • Confinement: Introduce your pet to a safe, confined area where they cannot jump on furniture or run to the door when someone knocks. • Leash Training: If your pet is not accustomed to a leash, begin practicing now so they are comfortable during recovery. • Sleeping Arrangements: If your pet typically sleeps in bed with you, start getting them used to resting in their new confined area. • Activity Restriction: Begin limiting high-impact activities to reduce the risk of further injury before surgery. If surgery is elected at your appointment, we will provide doses of omeprazole (an antacid) to reduce stomach acid and a probiotic to support gut health. These are started prior to surgery to help prepare your pet’s system for anesthesia and recovery.
Is there anything I need to do before surgery?
We recommend getting your pet ready in advance for the lifestyle changes that will follow surgery. This preparation helps reduce stress and makes recovery smoother. • Confinement: Introduce your pet to a safe, confined area where they cannot jump on furniture or run to the door when someone knocks. • Leash Training: If your pet is not accustomed to a leash, begin practicing now so they are comfortable during recovery. • Sleeping Arrangements: If your pet typically sleeps in bed with you, start getting them used to resting in their new confined area. • Activity Restriction: Begin limiting high-impact activities to reduce the risk of further injury before surgery. If surgery is elected at your appointment, we will provide doses of omeprazole (an antacid) to reduce stomach acid and a probiotic to support gut health. These are started prior to surgery to help prepare your pet’s system for anesthesia and recovery.
Can my pet have food or water before surgery?
We recommend stopping food, water, and medications at 9:00 p.m. the night before surgery. On the morning of surgery, your pet may have a very small amount of water (about the amount of a melted ice cube), but nothing more.
Can my pet have food or water before surgery?
We recommend stopping food, water, and medications at 9:00 p.m. the night before surgery. On the morning of surgery, your pet may have a very small amount of water (about the amount of a melted ice cube), but nothing more.
Can my pet have food or water before surgery?
We recommend stopping food, water, and medications at 9:00 p.m. the night before surgery. On the morning of surgery, your pet may have a very small amount of water (about the amount of a melted ice cube), but nothing more.
Do you offer evening care?
A highly skilled team member will be in-house overnight to carefully monitor all of our patients. Your pet’s comfort and safety are always our top priority, and injectable pain medications can be administered if needed. If your pet feels nervous or anxious after surgery, our team will be there to provide calm reassurance and gentle care throughout the night.
Do you offer evening care?
A highly skilled team member will be in-house overnight to carefully monitor all of our patients. Your pet’s comfort and safety are always our top priority, and injectable pain medications can be administered if needed. If your pet feels nervous or anxious after surgery, our team will be there to provide calm reassurance and gentle care throughout the night.
Do you offer evening care?
A highly skilled team member will be in-house overnight to carefully monitor all of our patients. Your pet’s comfort and safety are always our top priority, and injectable pain medications can be administered if needed. If your pet feels nervous or anxious after surgery, our team will be there to provide calm reassurance and gentle care throughout the night.
What can I expect after surgery?
Each surgical experience is unique and we will adjust based on your pet’s procedure and recovery. Your pet will stay with us immediately post-op for 1 night for monitoring and pain management. The first 3-5 days are typically when patients are most uncomfortable, though comfort and limb use generally improve with time. In some cases, pets actually feel better right after surgery because the injury or instability was more painful than the procedure itself. All patients are sent home with pain medications, and most will also receive antibiotics and sedatives. During recovery, your pet’s activity will need to be strictly restricted. This means confinement to a kennel or small space and only short, controlled leash walks—no running or jumping. The recovery timeline varies depending on the procedure performed, and we will review detailed expectations with you at the appointment and again at discharge. You can also reference the written instructions in the Post-Op Care section for additional guidance.
What can I expect after surgery?
Each surgical experience is unique and we will adjust based on your pet’s procedure and recovery. Your pet will stay with us immediately post-op for 1 night for monitoring and pain management. The first 3-5 days are typically when patients are most uncomfortable, though comfort and limb use generally improve with time. In some cases, pets actually feel better right after surgery because the injury or instability was more painful than the procedure itself. All patients are sent home with pain medications, and most will also receive antibiotics and sedatives. During recovery, your pet’s activity will need to be strictly restricted. This means confinement to a kennel or small space and only short, controlled leash walks—no running or jumping. The recovery timeline varies depending on the procedure performed, and we will review detailed expectations with you at the appointment and again at discharge. You can also reference the written instructions in the Post-Op Care section for additional guidance.
What can I expect after surgery?
Each surgical experience is unique and we will adjust based on your pet’s procedure and recovery. Your pet will stay with us immediately post-op for 1 night for monitoring and pain management. The first 3-5 days are typically when patients are most uncomfortable, though comfort and limb use generally improve with time. In some cases, pets actually feel better right after surgery because the injury or instability was more painful than the procedure itself. All patients are sent home with pain medications, and most will also receive antibiotics and sedatives. During recovery, your pet’s activity will need to be strictly restricted. This means confinement to a kennel or small space and only short, controlled leash walks—no running or jumping. The recovery timeline varies depending on the procedure performed, and we will review detailed expectations with you at the appointment and again at discharge. You can also reference the written instructions in the Post-Op Care section for additional guidance.
Will my pet have stitches?
Your pet’s incision will have internal stitches holding deeper layers together. Depending on circumstances or surgeon preference, either internal sutures or external staples may be used to close the skin. If external sutures or staples are present, they will need to be removed 2 weeks postoperatively.
Will my pet have stitches?
Your pet’s incision will have internal stitches holding deeper layers together. Depending on circumstances or surgeon preference, either internal sutures or external staples may be used to close the skin. If external sutures or staples are present, they will need to be removed 2 weeks postoperatively.
Will my pet have stitches?
Your pet’s incision will have internal stitches holding deeper layers together. Depending on circumstances or surgeon preference, either internal sutures or external staples may be used to close the skin. If external sutures or staples are present, they will need to be removed 2 weeks postoperatively.
What if I have questions or concerns after my pet comes home?
One of our staff members is On-Call in the evenings and over the weekend to field any questions or concerns you may have. They will contact the doctor to develop a plan if a complication arises after-hours. The phone number will be provided to you with the discharge instructions. Messages are checked through the day until 9pm.
What if I have questions or concerns after my pet comes home?
One of our staff members is On-Call in the evenings and over the weekend to field any questions or concerns you may have. They will contact the doctor to develop a plan if a complication arises after-hours. The phone number will be provided to you with the discharge instructions. Messages are checked through the day until 9pm.
What if I have questions or concerns after my pet comes home?
One of our staff members is On-Call in the evenings and over the weekend to field any questions or concerns you may have. They will contact the doctor to develop a plan if a complication arises after-hours. The phone number will be provided to you with the discharge instructions. Messages are checked through the day until 9pm.
Are there any follow-up visits?
Follow-up appointments will depend on the procedure performed and your surgeon’s preferences. In most cases, there will be a 2-week and a 6-8 week recheck. Your pets incision and mobility are assessed at the 2 week recheck. Staples/stitches are removed, if present. The 6-8 week recheck is to determine if your pet has healed sufficiently to begin gradually returning to normal activity. X-rays will be performed at this visit when necessary. Additional follow-up visits may be necessary if complications arise or healing is delayed.
Are there any follow-up visits?
Follow-up appointments will depend on the procedure performed and your surgeon’s preferences. In most cases, there will be a 2-week and a 6-8 week recheck. Your pets incision and mobility are assessed at the 2 week recheck. Staples/stitches are removed, if present. The 6-8 week recheck is to determine if your pet has healed sufficiently to begin gradually returning to normal activity. X-rays will be performed at this visit when necessary. Additional follow-up visits may be necessary if complications arise or healing is delayed.
Are there any follow-up visits?
Follow-up appointments will depend on the procedure performed and your surgeon’s preferences. In most cases, there will be a 2-week and a 6-8 week recheck. Your pets incision and mobility are assessed at the 2 week recheck. Staples/stitches are removed, if present. The 6-8 week recheck is to determine if your pet has healed sufficiently to begin gradually returning to normal activity. X-rays will be performed at this visit when necessary. Additional follow-up visits may be necessary if complications arise or healing is delayed.
What will the cost of surgery be?
The final cost of surgery is highly variable based on procedure performed, implants used, duration of anesthesia, patient size, medications sent home, etc. An estimate range will be provided either prior to the visit or during the consultation visit. The estimate will usually be strictly the immediate surgical cost and not include the initial consultation, recheck x-rays, bandage changes, etc.
What will the cost of surgery be?
The final cost of surgery is highly variable based on procedure performed, implants used, duration of anesthesia, patient size, medications sent home, etc. An estimate range will be provided either prior to the visit or during the consultation visit. The estimate will usually be strictly the immediate surgical cost and not include the initial consultation, recheck x-rays, bandage changes, etc.
What will the cost of surgery be?
The final cost of surgery is highly variable based on procedure performed, implants used, duration of anesthesia, patient size, medications sent home, etc. An estimate range will be provided either prior to the visit or during the consultation visit. The estimate will usually be strictly the immediate surgical cost and not include the initial consultation, recheck x-rays, bandage changes, etc.
What sort of payment options to you have?
We accept all major credit cards, cash, and checks. For added flexibility, we also work with CareCredit and Scratchpay, which offer financing options to help manage the cost of care. Please note that using credit cards, CareCredit, or Scratchpay incurs a 3.5% merchant fee, which allows us to maintain the lowest possible prices. Additional financial aid resources are available, and we encourage you to explore them in our Payment & Financing section.
What sort of payment options to you have?
We accept all major credit cards, cash, and checks. For added flexibility, we also work with CareCredit and Scratchpay, which offer financing options to help manage the cost of care. Please note that using credit cards, CareCredit, or Scratchpay incurs a 3.5% merchant fee, which allows us to maintain the lowest possible prices. Additional financial aid resources are available, and we encourage you to explore them in our Payment & Financing section.
What sort of payment options to you have?
We accept all major credit cards, cash, and checks. For added flexibility, we also work with CareCredit and Scratchpay, which offer financing options to help manage the cost of care. Please note that using credit cards, CareCredit, or Scratchpay incurs a 3.5% merchant fee, which allows us to maintain the lowest possible prices. Additional financial aid resources are available, and we encourage you to explore them in our Payment & Financing section.
Contact Us
Contact Us
Contact Us
Fax. (828) 684.4808
Fax. (828) 684.4808
Fax. (828) 684.4808
