Understanding Pet Surgeries at Tidmore Veterinary Hospital in Northport, Alabama

At Tidmore Veterinary Hospital, we know that the thought of surgery for your pet can be stressful. Whether your pet needs a routine procedure or a complex surgical intervention, our team is committed to providing advanced medical care with compassion and expertise.

Located in Northport, Alabama, our state-of-the-art facility is equipped to handle a wide range of surgical procedures for dogs and cats. We prioritize safety, comfort, and a smooth recovery, ensuring that every pet receives the highest standard of veterinary care.

If your pet requires surgery, schedule a consultation with our team to discuss options and prepare for the procedure.

Common Surgeries for Dogs and Cats

Spaying and Neutering

Spaying and neutering are among the most common surgeries performed at Tidmore Veterinary Hospital. These procedures:

  • Prevent unwanted litters and help reduce pet overpopulation
  • Lower the risk of reproductive cancers such as mammary, ovarian, and testicular cancer
  • Minimize behavioral issues like roaming, aggression, and marking

The surgery is quick and routine, with most pets returning home the same day. Post-surgical care includes pain management, monitoring for infection, and keeping your pet calm during recovery.

Learn more about the benefits of spaying and neutering.

Dental Surgery

Oral health is critical to your pet’s overall well-being. Common dental procedures include:

  • Tooth extractions for broken, infected, or severely decayed teeth
  • Treatment of periodontal disease, a leading cause of tooth loss
  • Removal of oral tumors and growths

Signs that your pet may need dental surgery include bad breath, difficulty eating, pawing at the mouth, and swollen gums. Routine dental care, such as brushing your pet’s teeth and providing dental chews, can help prevent serious oral health issues.

Cruciate Ligament Repair in Dogs

A torn cruciate ligament in the knee is one of the most common orthopedic injuries in dogs, often requiring surgical intervention.

Symptoms of a cruciate ligament tear include:

  • Sudden limping or lameness in the hind leg
  • Difficulty standing up or climbing stairs
  • Swelling around the knee joint

Surgical options like Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy (TPLO) or Tibial Tuberosity Advancement (TTA) help stabilize the knee and prevent long-term joint damage and arthritis.

Learn more about cruciate ligament injuries and treatment options.

Tumor Removal and Cancer Surgery

Early detection and surgical removal of cancerous tumors can significantly improve a pet’s quality of life and prognosis. Common tumor-related surgeries include:

  • Mastectomies for mammary tumors
  • Lump and mass removals to determine malignancy
  • Limb amputations in cases of aggressive bone cancer

Regular wellness exams can help catch tumors before they spread. If you notice lumps, swelling, or unexplained weight loss, seek veterinary evaluation immediately.

Explore different types of cancer in pets.

Exploratory Surgery

In some cases, when a definitive diagnosis is unclear, exploratory surgery is necessary to examine internal organs and tissues. This may be recommended for:

  • Unexplained weight loss or chronic vomiting
  • Suspected internal bleeding or foreign body ingestion
  • Liver, kidney, or gastrointestinal disease

During this procedure, our veterinarians assess internal structures to diagnose and treat the condition, ensuring the best possible outcome.

Read more about exploratory surgery for pets.

Preparing for Your Pet’s Surgery

Before surgery, preoperative preparation is key to ensuring a safe procedure and smooth recovery.

  • Fasting instructions: Most pets should not eat 8-12 hours before surgery to reduce anesthesia risks.
  • Pre-surgical bloodwork: We assess organ function and clotting ability to ensure your pet is healthy enough for anesthesia.
  • Medications and special care: Inform us if your pet takes any regular medications or supplements.

If you have questions about preparing your pet for surgery, contact us for guida nce.

What to Expect on Surgery Day

  • Check-in and pre-surgical evaluation – We complete any final assessments before surgery.
  • Anesthesia and pain management – Our team monitors your pet closely throughout the procedure.
  • Surgical procedure – The duration depends on the complexity of the surgery.
  • Recovery and post-op monitoring – Pets remain under supervision until they are awake and stable.

We provide clear post-surgery care instructions so you know exactly how to help your pet recover at home.

Post-Surgical Care and Recovery

The days following surgery are crucial for healing and pain management.

  • Limit activity – Prevent running, jumping, or rough play to protect the surgical site.
  • Monitor the incision – Watch for redness, swelling, or discharge that could indicate infection.
  • Give prescribed medications – Pain relief and antibiotics should be administered as directed.
  • Provide a calm environment – A quiet, stress-free space helps speed up recovery.

If you notice any concerning symptoms, such as persistent lethargy, difficulty breathing, or loss of appetite, contact our team immediately.

FAQs About Pet Surgery

How long does recovery take?

Recovery varies depending on the surgery. Spays/neuters typically take 7-10 days, while orthopedic surgeries may require 8-12 weeks of restricted activity.

Is anesthesia safe for my pet?

Yes. We use modern anesthesia protocols and advanced monitoring equipment to keep your pet safe throughout the procedure.

What should I feed my pet after surgery?

Your pet may have a reduced appetite for 24 hours. Offer bland, easily digestible food like boiled chicken and rice, or a veterinarian-recommended recovery diet.

Why Choose Tidmore Veterinary Hospital?

At Tidmore Veterinary Hospital, we are dedicated to providing exceptional surgical care backed by:

  • Experienced veterinary surgeons trained in advanced surgical techniques
  • State-of-the-art equipment to ensure safety and precision
  • A compassionate approach that prioritizes your pet’s well-being

We know that surgery can be overwhelming, and our team is here to answer all your questions and support your pet every step of the way.

Schedule a surgical consultation today

Your pet’s health is our top priority—trust Tidmore Veterinary Hospital for expert surgical care in Northport, Alabama.