Surgery for your dog, or any pet, can sound scary, but sometimes it’s the best – or only – option to relieve pain, treat an injury, or improve quality of life. At TrueCare for Pets Los Angeles, we help pet owners understand when surgery is needed and what to expect before, during, and after.

A veterinarian in a white lab coat examines a small black dog.

Common signs your dog may need surgery.

See a veterinarian or specialist if your dog shows signs like:

  • Limping or lameness that doesn’t improve
  • Difficulty walking, standing, or using stairs
  • Swollen or painful abdomen
  • Masses or growths on the body
  • Blood in urine or signs of bladder stones
  • Repeated vomiting or obstruction signs
  • Wounds that won’t heal or infections that return

Some conditions require urgent intervention – like foreign body removal, orthopedic injuries, or bloat (GDV).

A dog with a bandage around its waist is being helped along for a walk.

Common types of surgeries we perform.

At TrueCare for Pets Los Angeles, our board-certified surgeons perform:

  • Orthopedic procedures (like CCL repair)
  • Soft tissue surgeries (mass removal, hernia repair)
  • Emergency abdominal surgery (bloat, obstruction)
  • Wound repair and laceration management

We work closely with your primary vet and other specialists to plan the best outcome.

What to expect before and after surgery.

Before surgery:

  • Your dog will undergo diagnostics like x-rays and bloodwork
  • Our team will review your pet’s procedure and answer questions
  • You’ll receive pre-op instructions (e.g., no food or water)

After surgery:

  • Most pets stay for observation
  • We’ll provide detailed discharge instructions and medications
  • Our team is available if complications arise at home

A small black and white dog wears a blue inflatable e-collar while a veterinary Associate pets her gently.

When your dog may need surgery — FAQ.

If your dog exhibits any of the following symptoms, it may be time to consult a veterinarian or specialist:

  • Limping or Lameness: Persistent limping that does not improve over time.
  • Mobility Issues: Difficulty walking, standing, or navigating stairs.
  • Abdominal Distress: A swollen or painful abdomen that may indicate serious health issues.
  • Growths or Masses: Presence of unusual masses or growths on the body.
  • Urinary Problems: Blood in urine or signs of bladder stones.
  • Gastrointestinal Distress: Repeated vomiting or signs of obstruction.
  • Non-Healing Wounds: Wounds that do not heal or recurring infections.

 

Certain conditions, such as foreign body ingestion, orthopedic injuries, or bloat, require immediate medical attention.

Our board-certified surgeons at TrueCare for Pets Los Angeles specialize in a variety of surgical procedures, including:

  • Orthopedic Surgeries: Such as ACL repairs to address joint issues.
  • Soft Tissue Surgeries: Including mass removals and hernia repairs.
  • Emergency Abdominal Surgeries: For urgent conditions like bloat or obstructions.
  • Wound Repair: Management of lacerations and other injuries.

 

We collaborate closely with your primary veterinarian and other specialists to ensure the best possible outcomes for your pet.

Before the surgery, you can expect the following steps:

 

  • Diagnostics: Your dog will undergo necessary diagnostics, including x-rays and bloodwork, to assess their health.
  • Procedure Explanation: Our team will thoroughly explain the surgical procedure and address any questions or concerns you may have.
  • Pre-Operative Instructions: You will receive specific instructions to follow before the surgery, such as fasting guidelines (no food or water).

After the surgery, here’s what you can expect:

 

  • Observation: Most pets will stay at our facility for observation to ensure they recover safely.
  • Discharge Instructions: We will provide detailed discharge instructions, including care guidelines and medications for your pet.
  • Post-Surgery Support: Our team remains available to assist you with any complications or concerns that may arise at home.

Consulting a veterinarian is crucial because they can accurately diagnose your dog's condition and determine whether surgery is necessary. Early intervention can prevent complications and improve your pet's overall quality of life.

To prepare for your dog's surgery, ensure you:

  • Follow all pre-operative instructions provided by our team.
  • Bring any relevant medical records or information about your dog's health history.
  • Discuss any concerns or questions with your veterinarian before the procedure.

 

By understanding the signs that may indicate the need for surgery and what to expect throughout the process, you can help ensure a smoother experience for both you and your pet at TrueCare for Pets Los Angeles.

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