Dogs require more than a bone and a walk. Most dog owners recognize that, but sometimes in that adorable puppy phase, the costs of dog ownership can get lost in the haze of their cuteness.
Industry estimates indicate most dog owners spend between $400 and nearly $4,000 each year on their dogs, from treats and food to toys and medical expenses. And sometimes those medical expenses include surgeries.
Statistics indicate that an overwhelming majority of dogs in the U.S. are spayed or neutered (nearly 80%), which means most dogs will undergo a surgery at some point in their lives. And when they do, it’s important for dog owners to find knowledgeable veterinarians to handle the procedure.
It’s also helpful on the pocketbook for dog owners to find veterinary clinics that offer affordable surgical options, like the ones offered at Dr. Kelly’s Surgical Unit. Here are the most common surgeries for dogs.
Elective Surgery
Spaying and neutering a dog are among the most common surgical procedures. The surgeries not only help to responsibly control the animal population, but they also help prevent other health conditions later in life. In most cases, dogs fully recover in 12 to 14 days after surgery. Include a link to be taken to our scheduling page for a spay/neuter (Affordable spay & neuter surgeries are an integral part of our business. We offer affordable spay and neuter services to help you give your pet a long and healthy life.
Dental work, such as extractions and deep cleanings, is also among the most common surgeries for dogs. At Dr. Kelly’s, we specialize in affordable and convenient dental surgeries for dogs because we understand the important role they play in a dog’s overall health. Anesthesia is required for extractions and even deep cleanings to ensure the safety and comfort of a dog during the procedure. We offer affordable dental cleanings and extractions to ensure the health and well-being of your pet doesn’t have to feel like a financial burden.
Growth removals are also common surgeries for dogs. Benign growths, such as moles or warts, may be removed during a common surgery — which most times requires very little recovery time and may only require a few sutures to close the wound if a piece of skin is removed.
Emergency Surgery
Broken or fractured bones are repaired with orthopedic surgery. Sometimes those surgeries require the placement of plates or pins and recovery often demands that a dog avoid activity for an extended period of time (usually 6-8 weeks). In addition to limited activity, dogs recovering from orthopedic surgery may also need antibiotics and pain medication.
Skin wounds or abscesses require surgical intervention to remove any damaged tissue and safely close the wound. The recovery period involves limited activity and close attention to keeping the wound clean. And, if the wound requires a drain, that will need to be flushed until it is removed. Sutures are usually removed about 14 days after surgery.
Intestinal obstructions require a pretty invasive surgery to determine where a blockage is and to remove it, if possible. Dogs that undergo this type of surgery usually remain hospitalized for a few days and will then need to be confined for a couple weeks to allow for the wound to recover.
Stones, in the bladder or urethra, can also be somewhat common in dogs. Surgery to remove the stones also involves a flush of the urethra to ensure it is clear of any smaller particles. Dogs who require this type of surgery usually stay in the hospital for a couple days to make sure they are urinating properly.
Dr. Kelly’s Surgical Unit is a trusted veterinary team serving the Phoenix, Peoria and Tucson metro areas, with accessible locations in each market, offering affordable surgery, affordable spay and neuter procedures and affordable dental care for pets. Contact us to learn more about our affordable services and our accessible appointments.
