Common types of pet surgeries.

If your vet has referred your pet for surgery, you’re not alone. At BluePearl Tampa, we perform a wide range of procedures to help pets recover from injuries, remove dangerous masses, or manage chronic health problems. Here are the surgeries we perform most – and what they’re used to treat.

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

1. Mass removals and biopsies.

Used to remove skin lumps, tumors, or internal growths. Some are benign, while others require testing and further treatment.

2. Foreign body removal.

When a pet swallows a toy, sock, or bone fragment, we may need to perform abdominal surgery to remove the obstruction and prevent life-threatening complications.

3. Cruciate ligament (CCL) repair.

Common in active dogs, this orthopedic surgery stabilizes the knee joint after ligament rupture. Symptoms include limping or sudden hind leg weakness.

4. Bladder stone removal.

Pets with urinary issues may need surgery to remove any stones that are too large to pass on their own and are causing pain or blockages.

5. Hernia repair.

We surgically fix hernias in the abdominal wall or groin area, preventing organs or tissue from pushing through weak spots in the muscle.

6. Emergency abdominal surgery.

This includes cases like gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV, sometimes referred to as bloat), internal bleeding, or trauma – all of which require rapid intervention.

What to expect at BluePearl Tampa.

  • Pre-operative consultation and diagnostics
  • General anesthesia and patient monitoring
  • Pain management and post-op care
  • Follow-up instructions and access to our team after discharge

Signs your pet may need surgery.

Ask your vet or seek emergency care if your pet:

  • Is limping or refusing to use a limb
  • Has a visible mass or swelling
  • Has repeated vomiting or straining to urinate
  • Cries out in pain when touched
  • Isn’t improving with medication alone

A small, black Dachshund waits with its owner inside a BluePearl examination room.

BluePearl Tampa pet surgery types – FAQ.

At BluePearl Tampa, our veterinary surgery team performs both planned and emergency procedures. Common surgeries include:

  • Mass removals and biopsies to assess or eliminate abnormal growths
  • Foreign body removal when pets swallow toys, clothing, or bones
  • Cruciate ligament (ACL) repair for dogs with knee instability or limping
  • Bladder stone removal to relieve urinary blockages
  • Hernia repair to prevent organs from protruding through muscle walls
  • Emergency abdominal surgeries such as bloat, internal bleeding, or trauma

 

Our board-certified specialists and experienced staff use advanced techniques to support safe and effective outcomes.

Surgery may be recommended if your pet is experiencing:

  • A visible lump or swelling
  • Ongoing vomiting or straining to urinate
  • Persistent limping or sudden mobility changes
  • Pain when touched or picked up
  • Little to no improvement with medication

 

Some surgeries are elective, while others, like obstruction removal or bloat, are true emergencies.

From diagnosis to recovery, we guide pet families every step of the way:

  • Pre-surgical consultation to evaluate your pet’s condition
  • Diagnostic testing including bloodwork, x-rays, or ultrasound
  • General anesthesia and patient monitoring during the procedure
  • Pain management and post-op care to ensure comfort
  • Clear discharge instructions and direct access to our team after surgery

 

You’ll always be kept informed, and we’ll coordinate with your primary veterinarian for follow-up.

Yes, ACL surgery is one of the most frequently performed orthopedic procedures in dogs, especially large breeds or very active pets. Signs your dog may need this surgery include limping, instability, or avoiding pressure on a hind leg. BluePearl Tampa offers surgical stabilization to restore mobility and reduce pain.

If your pet is vomiting, acting lethargic, refusing food, or showing signs of abdominal pain, it’s possible they’ve ingested a foreign object. These cases often require x-rays and, if confirmed, surgical removal to prevent intestinal damage or infection.

After surgery, we provide:

  • Detailed home care and medication instructions
  • Diet and activity restrictions to support healing
  • Tips on incision care and signs to watch for (like swelling or discharge)
  • A timeline for follow-up appointments and suture removal

 

Our team is just a phone call away if any concerns arise during recovery.

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