10 Questions You Should Always Ask Before Pet Emergency Surgery

When your pet is in an emergency and needs urgent surgery, it is important to get some details beforehand. These details will help you manage your expectations and prepare you for what will happen. Usually, the veterinarian is more than willing to answer any questions you have about the procedure.

So, what questions should you ask before a pet emergency surgery?


 

What Is the Diagnosis?

The first thing you should ask for is the exact diagnosis. Ensure you write it down because the terms can be quite technical. If there have been some tests done on your pet, ask for the reports of the tests.

What Are the Treatment Options Available?

Sometimes, there is more than one way to treat your pet. Ensure you ask your veterinarian for all available options. Most veterinarians will often recommend the best option. Asking for other options will let you understand why they are not better than the recommendation.

What Are the Risks or Complications?

Some surgeries have high risks, and others have low risks. It would be best to ask your surgeon about the risks involved with the procedure they are about to perform. It will help you prepare for the outcomes much better. If your surgeon says there are no risks, it is a red flag—you should find another pet hospital.

What Is Your Experience With This Procedure?

It might be a sensitive question, especially for younger surgeons, but it is necessary. It is a good way to keep yourself well-prepared.

What Is the Prognosis?

It is important to ask this so you can know what the surgery should achieve. Understanding the statistics related to a certain procedure will help you stay at ease. Some surgeries only extend the life of your pet by a year. It would be best if you understood why.

How Will You Maintain My Pet’s Temperature?

When under anesthesia, pets tend to get cold like humans, so it is important to keep them warm. Surgeons use technology used for humans, like warm air blankets, warm water beds, or fluid warmers. Keeping a patient warm is important because it ensures they recover much faster.

What Will Happen During the Surgery?

It is good to know what will happen during the surgery. It will also help you keep calm while waiting. Specific details may be a bit too graphic. Ask for a general concept of what they will do.

How Will They Control Pain?

Controlling pain in the hospital will depend on your pet's procedure. Some need only a few injections if it is a minor surgery. Major surgeries will require more detailed pain management strategies.

Does the Hospital Have Overnight Care?

Most veterinarians do not have overnight care. If your veterinarian does not have it and you are worried about your pet staying alone, you can explore other options.

What Post-operative Care Will Be Needed?

Your veterinarian should give you a detailed aftercare itinerary. It may include special diets, medications, and exercise to help your pet recover quickly. Usually, the nurse will review the list with you during the discharge.

For more on what you should always ask before a pet emergency surgery, visit Airport Freeway Animal Emergency Hospital at our office in Euless, Texas. Call (817) 571-2088 to book an appointment today.