[Gpdd] Health: Tips on finding a vet, and questions to ask

[Susi Eastin]

This is a subject that comes up from time to time. Unfortunately, we often don't worry
about it until we need a vet, and then it's an emergency. This link has some good tips,
at least a place to begin-
http://cavyinfo.com/html/how-to_vet.html


Here's another bit of information that may be useful in choosing a vet and considering surgery. This is posted on our vet's website:

"Consumer Guide to Elective Surgery

"Thank you for recognizing the need to spay or neuter your pet. Many people "shop around" for the best price on this surgery, without the knowledge of why the cost varies among veterinary practices. This guide was put together to help you find the best fit between the veterinary practice and your expectations for the care of your pet.

Questions to Ask and Why to Ask Them:

1. Will my pet receive a complete physical examination prior to surgery?

This is important for a number of reasons. It is our first defense against performing surgery on an animal that may have infectious disease, a heart murmur, or be debilitated from parasites.

2. Can pre surgery blood work be performed prior to the procedure?

Pre-surgery blood work determines how healthy your pet's internal organs are functioning. Also, anemia and infections and dehydration can be diagnosed. Potential problems can then be avoided.

3. Will the surgery be performed in a sterile environment?

To perform most surgeries, the veterinarian and technicians wear caps and masks, sterile gloves and gowns. Anything less compromises the standard of excellence taught in both veterinary and medical schools. Compromise increases the risk of infections.

4. What safety precautions will be taken with my pet during surgery?

While most surgery is uneventful, emergencies sometimes arise. Early detection of impending problems greatly aids our ability to intervene and correct the problem. An endotracheal tube (breathing tube) should be placed in all anesthetized animals. This keeps the airway open and allows for supplemental oxygen or gas anesthesia as needed. A pulse oximeter and breathing monitor allows the surgeon to keep track of heart and respiratory rhythm as well as the amount of oxygen in the blood. The practice should also have a "crash box" handy, which contains emergency drugs and supplies.

5. Where will my pet recover from surgery?

The floor in the surgery room is cold and contaminated with bacteria stirred up when people walk by so pets should not recover there. Ideally, the patient is recovering on a mat, perhaps with a heating pad, covered with a blanket, and in a quiet, dark, warm room. This insures a peaceful transition to him being awakened. Sometimes incubators are utilized to keep your pet at the perfect post-operative temperature.

6. What other safety precautions will be taken with my pet after surgery?

Surgery patients lose body heat through anesthesia and the opening of body cavities. If patients get too cold, the heart can be affected. Patient temperature should be monitored at regular intervals after surgery and supplemental heating provided as needed. Your pet's gum color, pulse and respiration should also be monitored.

7. How will pain be controlled for my pet?

This is very important. Surgery hurts! The anesthetic will not provide pain control once the pet wakes up. Also, pain control medication should be offered when your pet leaves the hospital.

8. Will I receive written post-surgical care instructions for my pet?

Aftercare of surgical patients is very important for proper healing. The hospital should provide written discharge instructions for your pet.

9. Will I have the option to choose LASER surgery?

Only a hand full of veterinary hospitals offer the capability of a surgical LASER. The LASER greatly reduces pain, swelling and bleeding associated with surgery. LASER Surgery is state-of-the-art and is a wonderful option available for every surgery.

So, as you can see, there are choices in veterinary care and capabilities. The more you know about veterinary hospitals and their services, the better the decision you can make for your pets. Here, at Animal Medical Center, all of the above equipment and techniques are utilized to provide the best care for you and your animals. I hope your questions have been answered. If not, call us today."

 

[note: this is not meant as an advertisement; there are many 'animal medical centers' listed]