SURGERY AT WEST HILLS ANIMAL HOSPITAL

» Internal Medicine and Surgery	» Surgery at West Hills
» Internal Medicine	» Standards of Care

We are proud to provide the best in veterinary surgery.  From elective  procedures to advanced surgeries and orthopedics, our doctors share over 70 years of experience.  Our surgery suite offers separate ventilation, high quality lighting and instrumentation as well as open viewing for owners who wish to be near their family member pets while they are with us.  Additionally, we are pleased to team with board certified surgeons who perform specialty surgeries on our premises to meet the special needs of some patients. 

Laser Surgery

When possible, all surgeries at West Hills Animal Hospital are performed with Laser Surgery. Laser surgery provides superb reduction in pain, swelling, and bleeding.

Less pain – The laser light seals nerve endings as it moves through the tissue resulting in improved post surgical pain reduction.

Less swelling – Laser energy doesn’t crush or tear tissue. Only light energy contacts the tissue and lymphatic vessels are sealed reducing post-operative swelling.

Less bleeding - The laser light seals small blood vessels during surgery allowing us to perform surgery in highly vascular areas with little or no bleeding.

Upon arrival, your family member pet is joined by both a veterinarian and a certified veterinary technician for his stay in our hospital.  Our standard of care for all patients includes pain management before, during and after surgery; preanesthetic examination; age appropriate blood work; intravenous fluids; as well as advanced monitoring of vital signs.  See our surgical standard of care for more details. Additionally, read more about our dedication to recognizing, preventing and controlling pain at Pain Free Clinic.

Preparing for surgery

• Unless directed otherwise, please do not feed your pet after midnight the evening before surgery.  Water should be provided as usual.
• Please walk and relieve your dog before coming to the hospital so he will be as comfortable as possible.
• Cats are safest in their carriers when coming to the hospital.  For help getting your cat to the clinic, go to www.catwellness.org.
• Review your pet’s Health Care Plan and ask any questions you may have before leaving your pet.

We will make every effort to give you an update about your pet when surgery is complete and he has recovered fully from anesthesia.

After surgery

• The type of procedure will dictate the after care needed for your pet’s best recovery.
• When your pet is discharged from the hospital, please be certain we have answered any questions you have and that the instructions are clear.
• On their first night home, be sure to offer small meals and small amounts of water frequently through the evening to reduce nausea. 
• Administer medications as instructed.

For orthopedic patients, please visit our physical rehabilitation page