When surgery cannot wait
Some conditions cannot be managed with medications or supportive care alone — they require surgical correction to give the patient any chance of survival. When that is the case, time from decision to incision matters enormously. Our surgical suite is stocked and ready at all hours precisely because these situations do not wait for morning.
Common emergency surgeries
Gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV) — bloat
GDV occurs when the stomach fills with gas and twists on itself, cutting off blood supply to the stomach and spleen. It is rapidly fatal without surgery — most patients will die within hours without intervention. The surgery involves untwisting the stomach, assessing the tissue for damage, removing any non-viable tissue, and permanently attaching the stomach to the body wall to prevent recurrence (gastropexy). If you suspect bloat, this is the most time-critical surgery we perform.
Foreign body obstruction
When an object is lodged in the stomach or intestines and cannot pass on its own, it causes a progressive obstruction that — if untreated — leads to tissue death, intestinal perforation, sepsis, and death. Surgery involves locating the obstruction, removing the object, and assessing the intestine for damage. In some cases, a section of intestine must be removed if it is no longer viable. Common culprits include socks, toys, corn cobs, bones, and rocks.
Internal bleeding
Splenic masses — especially hemangiosarcoma — are among the most common causes of sudden internal bleeding in dogs, particularly older large breeds. A ruptured splenic mass can cause a pet to collapse from blood loss with little warning. Emergency surgery to remove the spleen (splenectomy) can be life-saving. We also treat internal bleeding from trauma, liver lacerations, and other causes.
Urinary tract surgery
Some urinary blockages — particularly those caused by bladder stones or urethral tears — require surgical correction when catheterization is not sufficient. We also perform cystotomy (surgical entry into the bladder) to remove stones when indicated.
Wound repair and exploratory surgery
Deep bite wounds, traumatic injuries with significant tissue damage, and suspected internal injuries from penetrating trauma may require surgical exploration and repair.
What to expect
We do not take a patient to surgery without your consent — except in the rare case where immediate action is required to prevent death and we cannot reach you. In all other situations, you will receive a surgical estimate, an honest discussion of risk, and a clear explanation of what we are recommending and why. We ask questions, we listen to your concerns, and we make this decision together.
Before: Stabilization, bloodwork, imaging, anesthesia assessment, and your consent.
During: Our surgical and anesthesia team works together. Your pet's vital signs are monitored continuously throughout.
After: Post-operative ICU care, pain management, and regular updates to you. Discharge happens when your pet is stable and eating, with clear home care instructions and a follow-up plan with your regular vet.