A sudden lump, swollen belly, or internal mass can turn into an emergency fast. At BluePearl Los Angeles, our surgical and emergency teams work together to evaluate and treat serious conditions – often with same-day surgery.

Here's what pet owners should know about emergency mass removal and other urgent procedures.

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

When is surgery considered an emergency?

Emergency surgery may be required when a mass or growth:

  • Is bleeding, infected, or ruptured
  • Is pressing on internal organs
  • Causes difficulty breathing, walking, or urinating
  • Has grown rapidly or changed in appearance
  • Causes extreme pain or swelling
  • Is blocking the GI or urinary tract

Other surgical emergencies include foreign object ingestion, bloat, trauma, and unexplained internal bleeding.

A BluePearl vet examines a patient dog while a vet tech helps keep them still in an exam room.

What to expect during emergency surgery.

When your pet arrives at TrueCare for Pets Los Angeles:

  • Our ER team performs triage and stabilization
  • A surgeon evaluates the condition and imaging results
  • Surgery is performed if the mass or injury is deemed urgent
  • Your pet is monitored closely during anesthesia and recovery
  • We provide post-op care instructions and help you understand next steps

We prioritize safety and clear communication at every step.

Why rely on TrueCare for Pets Los Angeles for urgent surgery?

  • 24/7 emergency and surgical coverage
  • On-site diagnostic tools like x-ray, ultrasound, and lab work
  • Board-certified surgeons with experience in complex cases
  • Seamless handoff between ER and surgery teams
  • Compassionate, experienced care for pets in pain

A small brown and white canine patient wearing a bright pink cast stands on the floor of the hospital.

Emergency surgery at TrueCare for Pets Los Angeles — FAQ.

Emergency surgery may be necessary under the following circumstances:

  • Bleeding or Infection: If a mass or growth is actively bleeding, infected, or has ruptured.
  • Pressure on Organs: When a mass is pressing on internal organs, causing distress.
  • Respiratory or Mobility Issues: If the mass causes difficulty in breathing, walking, or urinating.
  • Rapid Growth or Changes: When a mass has grown quickly or changed in appearance.
  • Severe Pain or Swelling: If the mass is causing extreme pain or noticeable swelling.
  • Blockages: When a mass is obstructing the gastrointestinal (GI) or urinary tract.

 

Other urgent surgical situations include foreign object ingestion, bloat, trauma, and unexplained internal bleeding.

At TrueCare for Pets Los Angeles, the emergency surgery process includes:

  • Triage and Stabilization: Upon arrival, our emergency room (ER) team will perform triage to assess your pet's condition and stabilize them as needed.
  • Evaluation by a Surgeon: A qualified surgeon will evaluate your pet's condition and review imaging results to determine the urgency of the situation.
  • Surgical Intervention: If the mass or injury is deemed urgent, surgery will be performed promptly.
  • Monitoring: Your pet will be closely monitored during anesthesia and throughout the recovery process to ensure their safety.
  • Post-Operative Care: We will provide detailed post-operative care instructions and discuss the next steps for your pet's recovery.

 

Our commitment to safety and clear communication ensures you are informed at every stage of the process.

Choosing TrueCare for Pets Los Angeles for your pet's emergency surgical needs offers several advantages:

 

  • 24/7 Coverage: We provide round-the-clock emergency and surgical services to address urgent situations at any time.
  • On-Site Diagnostics: Our facility is equipped with advanced diagnostic tools, including x-ray, ultrasound, and laboratory services, allowing for quick assessments.
  • Expert Surgeons: Our board-certified surgeons have extensive experience in handling complex surgical cases, ensuring your pet receives top-notch care.
  • Seamless Coordination: We ensure a smooth transition between our ER and surgical teams, facilitating efficient treatment.
  • Compassionate Care: Our dedicated team is committed to providing compassionate and experienced care for pets in distress.

If you suspect your pet may require emergency surgery, it is crucial to act quickly. Bring your pet to TrueCare for Pets Los Angeles immediately or contact our emergency team for guidance. Early intervention can be vital in ensuring the best possible outcome for your pet.

To prepare for your pet's emergency visit, consider the following:

  • Gather Information: Bring any relevant medical records, including vaccination history and previous health issues.
  • Stay Calm: Your pet may sense your anxiety, so try to remain calm to help keep them relaxed.
  • Follow Instructions: If you have been given any pre-visit instructions, be sure to follow them closely.

 

By understanding the signs that indicate the need for emergency surgery and knowing what to expect, you can help ensure your pet receives the timely care they need at TrueCare for Pets Los Angeles.

Related articles.

A BluePearl urgent care technician smiles while helping a long-haired dog get out of a kennel.
Dog plays with sprinkler
Two chocolate Labrador puppies look at a plate of cookies.