Common Questions

1. How do I prepare my pet before the surgery?

1. No food or water after 8:00pm the night before surgery.
2. Female and male dogs are to be brought in between 8:00 and 8:30, others between 8:00 and 9:00 on the day of the surgery. They must be picked up before 5:30 pm the same day.
3. Pets must be clean, healthy and free of fleas and ticks. Animals with a heavy infestation of fleas will be treated with Capstar ($3) before surgery.
4. Cats must be in a carrier (please put in a towel) and dogs on a leash.
5. Give your dog a chance for a potty break at home and before entering the clinic or you will be charged a $25.00 clean-up fee.
6. Note: If the animal is pregnant or in heat, there will be an additional charge
   $15 for cats
   $20-25 for dogs, depending on weight

2. How do I care for my pet after surgery?

Please follow the post-operative instructions in caring for your pet:

1. Keep your pet in a draft-free, dry, and clean area tonight, and if possible for the next 5-7 days.
2. Restrict your pet's activities for the next 5-7 days to help reduce swelling. (Swelling may cause the incision to come open.)
   Do not bathe for the next 7-10 days.
3. Offer only a small amount of food and water tonight. Pets may feel sick to their stomachs after anesthesia, so occasional vomiting sometime occurs. If your pet is vomiting, take up its food and water overnight.
   (If your pet is still vomiting the next day call the Clinic.)
4. Monitor your pet closely for signs of infection or illness. You know what is normal for your animal.

3. Are there any reactions to shots?

Normally there are not reactions to shots, but there is always a chance, as with humans.
Sometimes there might be a bump come up where the shots are given. We give them in the hip and you can usually rub it out just like people have to when given some shots.

4. Who can I call for emergencies or other services?

• Please check our Local Resources page

5. What do I do about a vicious dog?

6. How do I dog-proof my kids, and kid-proof my dogs?

7. Why should I have my pets vaccinated for rabies?

8. Why should I spay/neuter my pet?

9. What are the laws for pet ownership in Rutherford County?

10. More great answers/ideas at American Animal Hospital Association Pet Care Library