General Vet Surgery

General Surgery

At Bundaberg South Vet Clinic we perform a range of general surgical procedures, including lump removals, desexing, wound repairs, cruciate surgery and more. Our team will discuss the procedure and provide instructions to help ensure your pet’s surgery and recovery go as smoothly as possible.

Before Surgery

Your pet must be fasted from 9:00pm the night before surgery. There is no restriction on water, and your pet may continue to drink normally.

If your pet is muddy or dirty, we recommend bathing and drying them before bringing them to the clinic. Excess dirt can affect preparation of the surgical site and may delay or compromise the procedure.

The Day of Surgery

On the morning of surgery, your pet may have access to water but must not have any food.

If your pet is currently taking medication, this can usually be given as normal. Please ensure you advise our team of any medications at the time of admission.

Where possible, we recommend allowing your pet the opportunity to have a walk and go to the toilet before arriving at the clinic.

Admissions are generally scheduled between 8:00am and 9:00am, although earlier or later admissions can be arranged by request. The admission appointment usually takes 10–15 minutes and includes signing consent forms and discussing the procedure. Most surgeries are day procedures, and pets are typically discharged later the same day.

After Surgery

Please follow all instructions and aftercare information provided by our team.

General surgery aftercare includes:

• Keep your pet calm and quiet for a minimum of 10 days
• Monitor the surgical area for excess redness, swelling, discharge or pain
• Do not allow swimming or bathing, and keep the wound completely dry
• Most re-check appointments occur within 10 days, but this will be confirmed on the day
• If an Elizabethan collar (cone) has been recommended, it must be worn at all times until the re-check appointment
• A small, easy to digest meal can be offered once your pet is home and settled
• Follow all instructions for prescribed medications carefully
• Monitor your pet for signs such as lethargy, vomiting, diarrhoea, or changes in appetite or behaviour.

If you have any concerns after your pet’s surgery, please contact the clinic as soon as possible, we’re here for you and your pet!