Practice Overview

To ensure your pet's post-surgery recovery goes smoothly and to minimize the risk of infection, it is highly recommended that they wear an e-collar. This protective collar will prevent your pet from chewing or licking their incision, which could potentially lead to infections. By taking this precautionary measure, we aim to prevent any complications that may arise, saving you from additional surgeries and associated costs.

The duration of activity restriction for your pet may vary, generally falling within the range of 6 to 12 weeks, with an average of 10 to 12 weeks. However, during each recheck appointment with Dr. Suber, you will receive specific guidance on which activities are permissible and which ones should be avoided. Dr. Suber will provide you with regular updates and instructions to ensure your pet's recovery progresses smoothly and safely.

Please remember to bring any medications your pet is currently taking, as well as their specialized diet or allergy-specific food, if applicable. It is preferable for you to bring your pet's food, but rest assured that we do provide food options if needed. If you choose to bring a blanket for your pet, kindly note that it may become mixed in with our laundry; however, we make every effort to keep personal belongings separated and well taken care of.

If your pet has a bandage after surgery, they will be provided with a bandage cover to safeguard the bandage, along with a sling for added support. Additionally, any prescribed post-operative medications will be given to you. If your pet does not have a bandage, they will instead be sent home with an ice pack to apply to the incision site, along with the sling and prescribed post-operative medications.

For your convenience, we will trim your pet's nails while it is under anesthesia, ensuring a more comfortable experience for your pet.

Charles, our dedicated overnight staff member, starts his shift at 6 pm and remains on-site until 6 am. Charles is responsible for closely monitoring your pet, administering medications, taking them for walks, and ensuring their well-being, comfort, and pain management throughout the night.

We are pleased to inform you that we accept both Care Credit and Scratch Pay as payment options. If you have any inquiries regarding these options, please feel free to contact our front desk staff who will be happy to provide you with additional information. We often receive inquiries about pet insurance, and yes, we do accept it. If you have pet insurance, you can make the payment for our services directly and then file a claim with your insurance provider. Typically, their office will reach out to us after the claim has been submitted.

No, a torn cruciate ligament in your pet is not considered an emergency. However, we understand the distressing nature of seeing your pet in discomfort. When you take your pet to their family veterinarian, they can prescribe pain medication to help alleviate any discomfort. Additionally, we typically recommend crate rest or kennel rest, along with activity restrictions, to further alleviate any discomfort. It's important to note that once the cruciate ligament is torn, there is no further damage that can occur. The development of arthritis is typically a gradual process, so it won't alter the outcome of the surgery.

During the initial two weeks following the surgery, it is important to avoid any swimming or contact with water near the incision area. After each recheck appointment with Dr. Suber, you will receive updated guidance on which activities are permitted moving forward. Dr. Suber will inform you about any additional activities that can be safely resumed based on your pet's recovery progress.

After your pet undergoes surgery, we provide you with a set of range of motion exercises to perform at home. The specific range of motion exercises will vary depending on the type of surgery your pet has undergone. These exercises are designed to aid in their recovery and promote mobility.

Following your pet's surgery, we ensure that all records and surgical notes are promptly sent to your veterinarian. This allows for comprehensive continuity of care and ensures that your veterinarian is informed about the details of the surgery and any relevant information for ongoing treatment.