We will clip a small area of fur from the front leg in order to inject the anaesthetic. If a drip was used this area will be larger. We will cover this with a tape bandage which you can remove after an hour or two at home. You may see some bruising but this will fade quickly and the fur will grow back over 1-2 months.

We give your pet some sedative and painkiller before the operation. Your pet may still be a bit sleepy from this, but should be able to walk. You can expect this to wear off over the next 24hrs.

During the anaesthetic we place a rubber tube in your pet's windpipe to protect its airway and help its breathing. Sometimes this means your pet will cough a little in the next few days but it should soon stop.

On the first evening do not be worried if your pet is a little quiet or sleepy. Allow him or her to rest comfortably. Your pet should be much brighter by the next morning.

Offer some food and water in the evening. Do not worry if your pet does not want it or eats less than normal. The appetite should improve by the next day.

Check any wounds daily. Look for signs of redness, swelling, bleeding or any discharge. It should not be painful.

Every animal and every procedure is different. Animals have an instinct in the wild to hide any signs of pain and injury. This means it is difficult to tell just by looking if an animal is in pain. If we would expect a procedure to cause pain then it is best to assume the animal will be at risk of feeling pain. We should then dispense a course of painkillers. It is best to complete this course even if the animal appears normal. More about pain relief here.

If your pet becomes weaker or drowsier during the first evening or her gums appear paler you must contact us immediately. Call 2330 7566 and follow the message.

If your pet vomits repeatedly, becomes excessively dull or lethargic, or appears to be becoming ill in the next few days contact us immediately.

Any stitches placed are normally removed 10 days after the operation. Please contact the clinic in order to make an appointment for this to be done. We will also do a post op check to make sure all has gone well. This is done free of charge, however please remember that if you raise other matters at this time our normal consultation fees will apply.