Surgical Services

Our hospital has a well equipped surgery with high standards of practice. All patients undergoing a surgical procedure at HAH receive pre-operative examination and bloodwork to ensure good health and appropriate drug choice on the day. All patients are routinely placed on modern anaesthetic machines with state-of-the-art monitoring equipment, a dedicated anaesthetic nurse and IV fluids throughout the procedure to minimise any risks and improve recovery times. This means that we offer an excellent survival and rapid recovery rates should your pet need surgery.

We offer medication protocols pre-surgery for nervous and anxious dogs to help reduce their stress prior to admission.
Post-surgery pain killers and anti-inflammatories are provided as standard to alleviate pain and help reduce any discomfort. All surgeries come with a complimentary post-surgery review appointment, booked at the time of discharge.  An Elizabethan Collar or inflatable collar is provided to reduce self-trauma to any surgery sites. 

Desexing

Pet desexing lowers the risk of certain health issues, and can minimise behavioural problems. The procedure can contribute to a longer, healthier life for your pet.

Health Benefits:

  1. Cancer Prevention: Desexing reduces the risk of some reproductive cancers, such as ovarian, uterine, prostatic and testicular cancers. For females, it also lowers the chances of developing mammary tumors, especially when performed before their first heat (oestrus cycle).

  2. Prevention of Infections: Speying prevents pyometra, a potentially life threatening uterine infection. Neutering helps protect males from prostate issues as they age.

  3. Helps with Pet Overpopulation: Desexing your pet helps to prevent unwanted pregnancies, reducing the number of animals that might end up in shelters.

Behavioral Benefits:

  1. Less Aggression: Castrated males are often less aggressive toward other dogs and are less likely to roam in search of a mate.

  2. Reduces Unwanted Behaviors: Desexing can help minimise marking territory (spraying) and decrease mounting behaviors in both males and females.

Recommended Age for Desexing:

Dogs: Timing can be crucial, especially for larger breeds, to balance the benefits while minimising any risks associated with the procedure. 

This evidence suggests that the decision should be individualised, taking into account the pet's breed, size, and specific health risks. Consulting with one of our vets at Heathmont Animal Hospital can help ensure the best outcome for your pet's health and well-being.

Sources:

  • Hart, B. L., Hart, L. A., Thigpen, A. P., & Willits, N. H. (2020). Assisting Decision-Making on Age of Neutering for 35 Breeds of Dogs: Associated Joint Disorders, Cancers, and Urinary Incontinence. Frontiers in Veterinary Science, 7, 388. https://doi.org/10.3389/fvets.2020.00388

Cats: For cats, desexing is commonly recommended at 6 months of age to prevent unwanted litters and associated behaviours.

Soft Tissue Surgery

We provide a wide range of animal soft tissue procedures, including:

  • Removal of lumps (malignant and benign)

  • Surgical Biopsies

  • Eyelid surgery and eye removal

  • Exploratory surgery of the abdomen, removal of ingested material

  • Removal of bladder stones

  • Amputations (limb, digit, ears, tails)

  • Caesereans

Orthopaedic surgery

Orthopaedic intervention is often required secondary to broken bones, ruptured ligaments (cruciate ligament disease), severe osteoarthritis and developmental diseases. Visiting specialist surgeons attend our clinic to ensure the best possible outcome for your pet.