Surgery
At Bilgola Vet Clinic, we are dedicated to providing the highest standard of surgical care for your pets. Our team of veterinarians and nurses are highly trained and experienced in soft tissue surgery, combining advanced clinical skills with a compassionate approach to ensure the best possible outcomes for every patient.
Performing surgeries in-house allows your pet to stay in a familiar environment surrounded by the team they know and trust, reducing stress and promoting a smoother recovery.
We offer a comprehensive range of soft tissue procedures, including:
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Lumpectomies for the removal of benign or malignant tumours
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Exploratory laparotomy to investigate internal abdominal conditions
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Cystostomy for the safe and effective removal of bladder stones
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Foreign body removal, including obstruction resolution
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Splenectomy
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Gastric Dilatation Volvulus (GDV) surgery, a critical life-saving procedure for dogs
We understand that any surgery can be daunting, and our approach prioritises your pet’s comfort and safety at every step. From pre-operative assessment and anaesthetic planning to post-operative monitoring and recovery, our team provides meticulous care tailored to your pet’s individual needs.
We also offer second opinions for surgical cases, providing an opportunity to explore all available options and make well-informed decisions about your pet’s care. Our goal is to ensure that you feel confident and supported in choosing the best approach for your pet’s health and wellbeing.
By combining expert surgical skills, state-of-the-art facilities, and personalised care, Bilgola Vet Clinic ensures that your pet receives the safest, most effective treatment—all within the comforting environment of their local clinic.
Pre-Anaesthetic & Admission Information
Your pet will need to be fasted the morning of a sedation or general anaesthetic. Please do not feed any food after midnight the night before surgery however water overnight is fine.
On the morning of surgery, one of our nurses will admit your pet and go over any required pre-operative paperwork and instructions.
Admission time is between 8:00am and 9:30am, unless otherwise arranged with you.
For your pet’s comfort, please ensure they have been toileted before admission.
Once admitted to hospital, your pet will be settled into a comfortable bed in our dedicated cat or dog ward.
Our team will perform a full health exam and run any internal blood work that may be required. Prior to anaesthesia, your pet will be given pain relief and sedation medication to keep them comfortable and relaxed.
Throughout their anaesthetic and hospital stay, your pet will have a dedicated nurse closely monitoring them to ensure their safety at all times.
You will receive a phone call once your pet is in recovery following surgery, providing an update on their condition and to organise a discharge time. Discharge times vary depending on the procedure but typically range from 3–6 hours post-surgery.
Post-Anaesthetic & Surgical Aftercare
The effects of a sedative or general anaesthetic can take some time to fully wear off. It is common for your pet to appear drowsy or tired on the evening of surgery and into the following day however most pets should be back to normal within 24–48 hours post-surgery.
At discharge, a team member will go through all aftercare instructions, including any medications dispensed to take home and whether any recheck appointments are required. Once home, please keep your pet in a quiet, warm environment and monitor them closely.
Any surgical sites must be kept clean and dry throughout the recovery period.
An Elizabethan collar (e-collar) may be provided to prevent licking or pawing at the surgical wound.
Dogs should not engage in off-lead activity, bathing, or swimming during recovery.
Normal activity can usually be resumed 10–14 days following a procedure, unless advised otherwise by your veterinarian.
Unless otherwise instructed, your pet may be offered a small amount of bland food on the evening after surgery.
Please ensure fresh water is always available. It is not unusual for them to have a reduced appetite or feel nauseous.
Our staff are available to chat at anytime during your pets recovery period and are always here for advice if you have any concerns.