What You Should Know Prior To Your Pet's Surgery

1.  You should know that your pet is healthy and has no pre-existing conditions which could complicate the administration of anesthesia or the surgical procedure. Such condtions include intestinal parasites and upper respiratory infections, to name just two. You should also know that your pet is mature enough to tolerate anesthesia and surgery. This knowledge is best gained by having a thorough examination performed by your veterinarian prior to hospitalization for surgery. 
2.  You should know that your pet is fully immunized and protected against disease that could be contracted by being in close proximity to other animals. This protection can be ensured by having your animal fully vaccinated at least one week prior to the scheduled surgery.
3.  You should know that you trust your veterinarian(s) and have a healthy working relationship. Because your veterinarian knows your pet, each decision made during his/her care will be specific to his/her individual needs.
4.  You should know that your pet's internal organs are functioning optimally and have the ability to tolerate, process, and eliminate the anesthesia required for surgery. This is best determined by laboratory testing on the day of the procedure, or as close as feasible.
5.  You should know that your pet's pain is assessed and addressed before, during and after the procedure, Your pet should not only receive pain medication before and during the surgery, but this medication should also be available post-operatively.
6.  You should know that your pet is monitored both during and after surgery. Your veterinarian and assisting technician shoudl have an acute awareness of your pet's status by both their skills of observation and state of the art equipment. Following surgery your pet should be monitored for complete anesthetic recovery, for signs of internal bleeding, complications with the surgical incision, and any other symptoms that could indicate a hazard to your pet's health.
7.  You should know that your pet will remain hospitalized until s/he is completely recovered from anesthesia, which may require twenty-four hours. Not only does this ensure the safety of your pet, but also your personal safety; partially anesthetized animals can sometimes act erratically and/or aggressively. Keeping your pet confined overnight lessens or eliminates the opportunities  for activity that may arise at home, i.e. climbing stairs, playing with another pet.
8.  You should know that in the days following your pet's surgery you have somewhere to turn if s/he has problems. You should know that your veterinarian cares about your pet and is available to you.