What time should I arrive on the day of surgery?
At Spry Companions we believe your four-legged friend should only be at our facility for the time we need for surgery preparation, completion, and recovery. We will schedule your admit appointment for approximately 2 ½ hours prior to the surgery start time. Depending on the surgical procedure it will typically take between 1 ½ to 2 ½ hours. Your companion will need around 30 minutes to 1 hour of recovery before being discharged. The exact time of arrival will be discussed with you when you schedule your pet’s surgical appointment. Should you need to drop off your pet prior to work and arrange a specific discharge time, please let us know and out staff can accommodate this request.
What should I do the night before surgery?
Your pet can have dinner as usual the night before surgery. Please don’t give them any food or medication after 9 p.m., unless you have previously discussed that with the doctor. In some cases, we will recommend giving certain medications or food. A small amount of water on the day of surgery is okay.
What do I bring to the surgery appointment?
Please bring any medications your companion is taking to your appointment including the dosing instructions, amount you have left, and the last time they were administered. While we love that you bring items from home to comfort your four-legged friend, we ask that you save those for when you pick them up. We don’t want them to get dirty or misplaced during the surgery process. We provide soft and comfy blankets for your companion to snuggle in while at our facility.
Will I be able to stay with my pet the day of surgery?
You are always welcome to stay at our facility while your pet is in surgery. We have quiet waiting rooms and internet access is readily available as well as a comfy workstation for our hard-at-work pet parents. If you choose not to stay with us that is ok. Please know that your four-legged friend is in the best hands possible.
When will my pet’s post-surgery care be reviewed?
Your pet’s technician and anesthetist will be reviewing a full set of detailed, written instructions prior to leaving the hospital. A copy of those instructions will be sent home with you and to your regular veterinarian. You can ask the technician any questions or concerns you might have at the time of your discharge. Your discharge time will be scheduled approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour after surgery is completed.
When can I take my pet home?
At Spry Companions we perform outpatient surgery, and your pet will go home with you the same day the procedure is performed. The first night home can be the most difficult, but we take pain management very seriously and want to make sure that your companion is comfortable. Due to the effectiveness of nerve blocks and epidural analgesia, most patients undergoing surgery are relatively relaxed the first night. In addition to the pain management performed at our hospital you will be sent home with oral medication to help manage any remaining discomfort.
How do I prepare for the ride home?
Bring along some blankets for padding and warmth. Some dogs experience incontinence due to the epidural they’ve received. We will provide you with some pee -pads for the drive home if your companion receives an epidural. The nerve block does not cause any urinary incontinence. For an average sized ‘Lab’ try to have two adults available to lift your pet out of your vehicle when you get home. Three adults may be needed for giant breeds.
Will I get to speak to the doctor after surgery?
You will be able to speak to your doctor post operatively. He will either call you after surgery or if he is available at the time of your discharge, he will speak to you in person. You will also receive your doctor’s personal cell phone number in case of an after-hours emergency. If you have any concerns during business hours call our office at 720-594-1030. Please only use their cellphone if it is an emergency.
What should I expect when I get home the night of surgery?
Your companion will most likely be able to walk (but not well) when you get home. Most patients find their comfort zone once home and sleep the evening and night away. While anesthesia is wearing off, some patients may act anxiously and sit up or lay down a few times. This is normal and is ok as long as they are in a small space or area. Some shivering can occur post-operatively due to the anesthesia wearing off. This is also normal and will stop as time passes and your four-legged friend recovers from anesthesia.