When your furry companion gets older, it may require special attention, especially in veterinary surgery. There are many reasons why elderly dogs could require surgery from vets. Pain management, cognitive and behavioral issues, anxiety, and trouble sleeping at night are several common causes. To ensure that your dog is safe during surgery, having your senior dog examined by a veterinarian who can gather a complete medical history and anticipate potential problems is essential.
Senior dogs tend to be more vulnerable to hypothermia, which can hinder the healing process after anesthesia and slow their metabolism. The most impressive results are achieved by managing each anesthetic session differently and considering each elderly dog.
Common Veterinary Surgery for Geriatric Dogs
While surgery can be daunting, a variety of common surgeries can significantly improve your senior pet’s quality of life. Here are some procedures you might want to think about for your senior pet:
Dental Surgery
Dental problems are common among older dogs, leading to irritation, infection, and eating difficulties. A dental surgery, such as tooth extraction or cleaning, can significantly enhance the health of your dog’s teeth and help make eating more enjoyable; visit your veterinarian to learn more.
There are risks associated with dental procedures on older dogs, including general anesthesia-related risks like hypotension, hypothermia, and depression of the respiratory and cardiovascular systems. But, these risks can be mitigated in senior pets through complete pre-anesthetic workups, stabilizing coexisting medical conditions before anesthesia, and using safe anesthetic techniques.
Spay or Neuter Surgery
Senior dog spaying and neutering can be risk-free. This procedure can help prevent pyometra and several malignancies (uterine infections). Prostatic conditions, uterine infections, prostatic hypertrophy, pyometra, and a wide range of behavioral problems can all be avoided through sterilization.
Moreover, spaying or neutering can assist in limiting the pet population by preventing unwanted litters. In particular, routine pain treatment can considerably prolong the life of a dog suffering from osteoarthritis and other degenerative muscular or skeletal issues.
Mass Removal
As dogs age, they are likely to develop bumps and lumps, which could be benign or cancerous. If your veterinarian spots a mass on your dog’s body, they may recommend surgical removal. Removal of a mass may improve your dog’s physical comfort and well-being and prevent the spread of cancer if the mass is malignant.
Joint Surgery
Arthritis is a joint condition that affects senior dogs and can cause discomfort and restricted movement. Hip or knee replacement surgery can dramatically enhance your dog’s quality of life by alleviating pain and providing better mobility. Joint surgery could be the perfect solution if your pup has trouble getting up, climbing stairs, or walking. Consult a veterinarian like Rancho Park Veterinary Clinic if your pet has joint issues.
Orthopedic Surgery
A type of surgery called pet orthopedic surgery helps heal wounds and return your pet’s limbs to their healthy state. Correction of the joints, bones, or ligaments could be required. Bone plates, nylon, pins, screws, castings, or prosthetic joints may be used during the procedure. Orthopedic surgery is accessible to pets at veterinary clinics and hospitals and is performed by a veterinary surgeon. Every effort is made to assure your pet’s safety and security throughout the procedure.
Abdominal Surgery
Geriatric dogs might develop issues in their abdominal region, including intestinal obstructions, tumors, or bladder stones. Abdominal surgery can eliminate these obstructions and enhance your dog’s health. General anesthesia bleeding, postoperative infection, intestinal or urinary leakage from the bladder, and wound disintegration in the incision area are the primary dangers during abdominal procedures. When administered correctly, senior pets do not significantly increase the risk of anesthesia. One benefit of abdominal surgery is the capability to detect and remove obstructions, tumors, or other issues that may cause the dog discomfort or discomfort.
Eye Surgery
Senior dogs might require eye surgery for some disorders like cataracts or ectropion. Eye surgery can correct these issues and improve the vision of your dog. Surgery could be the best choice if your dog is hitting objects, squinting, or exhibiting eye pain.
