Veterinary Emergency and Referral Hospital of West Toronto
We realize your pet is a very important part of your family and we value the trust you place in us when you leave them in our care. We will take every possible step to ensure a safe and comfortable surgical experience.
Surgery is a stressful experience not only for your pet, but for you too. We believe that by practicing the best surgery techniques possible, we can improve this experience for you both. If you have any questions or concerns, please speak with any of our staff. We want to earn your trust, and we look forward to maintaining our relationship with you throughout your pet’s life.
Consultation Day
Every client is greeted by our welcoming receptionist
Waiting room wait times are almost non existent
A veterinary technician will take a brief history and check your pet’s pulse, temperature, and other important vital signs
Dr. Hewitt will perform a physical exam on your pet, and discuss any treatment and diagnostics that will be required, including any risks or complications associated with these procedures
An itemized estimate of your procedure will be provided and explained in detail
A discharge summary of your consultation will be provided and a copy forwarded to your primary care veterinarian
We will take pre-anesthetic bloodwork to ensure healthy liver and kidney function in order for your pet to metabolize the anesthetic (if done recently, this can also be provided by your primary veterinarian)
Surgery Day
Admittance to the hospital begins between 8:00AM and 8:30AM
You and your pet will be checked in
Your pet will be sedated to reduce anxiety and stress
Our Registered Veterinary Technicians will sterilize, prepare, and place an IV catheter to administer fluids before, during, and after surgery
An anesthetic protocol will be made to suit your individual pet’s condition, health, and temperament
To maintain anesthesia, we will use gas similar to that used in human hospitals
During Your Pet’s Procedure
Your pet will be closely monitored using a variety of up-to-date techniques including ECG, pulse oximetry, doppler blood pressure, capnograph, nerve stimulator, and blood glucometer
Body temperature is maintained with a warm water pad or forced air while on the operating table
Sterile technique will be strictly adhered to using surgical caps and masks, and sterile gowns and gloves
All instruments and equipment used is sterilized and wrapped by Dr. Hewitt’s team using aseptic technique
After Surgery & Discharge
Your pet will be monitored closely upon waking up from anesthesia
Additional pain medication will be administered to ensure your pet’s continued comfort
A member of the surgery team will phone you to provide an update
If you choose, we will take pictures of your pet using our clinic smartphone, which can then be sent to you via e-mail or text
All aspects of post-operative care and recovery will be discussed with you upon discharge
A written discharge summary and an itemized invoice will be provided during your discharge appointment
Discharge summaries are sent to your primary care veterinarian to ensure consistent care for all follow-up visits to us
