If you own a pet, you know that we all want the best for our furry companions. Whether it’s regular check-ups, vaccinations, or ensuring a balanced diet, keeping our pets healthy is always a priority. But what happens when a more serious issue arises, and surgery becomes necessary? While the idea of your pet undergoing surgery can be daunting, it’s essential to understand the process and the reasons behind it. At Centenary Vet, a trusted Brisbane vet, we provide expert pet surgery procedures designed to help your pet live a happy, healthy life. This article will guide you through the most common surgeries performed on pets and offer insight into what you can expect during recovery.

Understanding Common Pet Surgery Procedures
Pets, just like humans, may need surgery for a variety of health reasons. These procedures range from routine surgeries to more complex interventions. Here’s an overview of the most common pet surgery procedures and why they may be necessary.
1. Desexing (Spaying/Neutering)
Desexing is perhaps the most common surgical procedure performed on pets. For many pet owners, it’s a necessary step in responsible pet ownership. Professional pet desexing involves the removal of reproductive organs—spaying for females and neutering for males.
This procedure helps prevent unwanted litters, reduces certain behavioural issues, and decreases the risk of specific cancers, such as testicular and ovarian cancer. The recovery time for desexing is usually short, with most pets returning to their normal routine within a week.
2. Lump Removal
Lumps and bumps can be common in pets, especially as they age. Not all lumps are harmful, but it’s always a good idea to have them checked by a Brisbane vet. In cases where a lump may be cancerous or causing discomfort, surgical removal is recommended.
At Centenary Vet, our experienced veterinarians assess and perform these pet surgery procedures with precision, ensuring your pet is in the best hands.
3. Orthopaedic Surgery
Orthopaedic surgeries, such as repairing broken bones or addressing joint issues like torn ligaments, are necessary to improve a pet’s mobility and quality of life. Dogs, in particular, are prone to joint issues such as cruciate ligament injuries, which require surgical intervention.
This type of surgery can be more complex, with recovery times varying depending on the severity of the injury. Your vet will likely recommend physical therapy and gradual reintroduction to exercise as part of the post-surgery care plan.
4. Dental Surgery
Oral health is vital to a pet’s overall well-being, and in some cases, dental surgery is required to address issues such as tooth decay, gum disease, or broken teeth. Pets with dental issues may need tooth extractions or procedures to treat infections that can spread to other organs if left untreated.
Expert dental surgeries are routine at Centenary Vet, where we provide comprehensive care to ensure your pet’s recovery is smooth and pain-free.
The Surgical Process: What to Expect
Once you’ve been advised that your pet needs surgery, it’s natural to feel anxious. However, knowing what to expect can help ease your concerns. At Centenary Vet, we follow a standard procedure to ensure your pet’s safety and comfort throughout the entire process.
1. Pre-Surgical Evaluation
Before any surgery, your vet will conduct a thorough examination to assess your pet’s health and suitability for the procedure. This includes blood tests, X-rays, and possibly ultrasounds to get a clear understanding of your pet’s condition.
2. The Day of Surgery
On the day of the surgery, your pet will be placed under general anaesthesia to ensure they remain still and pain-free during the procedure. Our team of highly trained veterinary surgeons performs each procedure with the utmost care, monitoring your pet’s vital signs throughout the operation.
3. Post-Surgical Recovery
After the surgery, your pet will be monitored closely to ensure they recover from the anaesthesia without complications. You’ll receive detailed instructions on how to care for your pet at home, including advice on managing pain, preventing infections, and ensuring a restful recovery. For more complex procedures like orthopaedic surgeries, follow-up visits will be scheduled to track progress.
Tips for Post-Surgery Pet Care
Recovery is a critical phase after any pet surgery procedure, and as a pet owner, you play a significant role in ensuring a smooth recovery.
- Follow Post-Surgery Instructions: Your vet will provide specific post-surgery instructions. These may include giving medications, keeping your pet from licking or scratching the surgical site, and limiting physical activity.
- Create a Comfortable Recovery Environment: Ensure your pet has a quiet, comfortable space to rest. Keep them warm and limit their movement during the initial recovery period.
- Monitor for Signs of Complications: Watch for any unusual behaviour such as excessive swelling, difficulty breathing, or changes in eating habits. If anything seems out of the ordinary, contact your vet immediately.
- Attend Follow-Up Appointments: It’s important to keep follow-up appointments to ensure the healing process is on track. This is also a great time to ask your vet any questions about your pet’s progress.
Why Choose Centenary Vet for Pet Surgery Procedures?
At Centenary Vet, we pride ourselves on providing compassionate and professional care for pets. Our team of highly skilled veterinarians specialises in a range of pet surgery procedures, from routine desexing to more advanced orthopaedic surgeries. We use state-of-the-art equipment to ensure every procedure is as safe and effective as possible.
By choosing Centenary Vet, you’re not only entrusting your pet to expert hands, but you’re also ensuring that they receive the best possible care throughout the entire surgical process—from pre-operative assessments to post-operative recovery. If you’re looking for professional pet surgery procedures in Brisbane, we’re here to help your pet get back to their best.
Whether it’s a routine surgery or a more complex procedure, pet surgeries are sometimes a necessary step to ensure our furry friends live long and healthy lives. Understanding the most common pet surgery procedures and how to care for your pet post-surgery can help ease the worry that often accompanies these procedures.
At Centenary Vet, we are dedicated to providing top-tier care and ensuring the best outcomes for every pet we treat. If your pet requires surgery or you have concerns about their health, don’t hesitate to contact our experienced vet team.