When your pet needs surgery, it’s natural to feel anxious and have questions about what to expect. Whether your companion requires a routine procedure like a spay or neuter, or a more complex surgical solution, having a trusted local veterinary team by your side can make all the difference. At Pet Care On Highland, we are proud to be a full-service veterinary clinic serving pets in Lakeland and surrounding communities. Our experienced veterinarians deliver compassionate care for a wide range of pet surgical procedures, always prioritizing your pet’s safety, comfort, and long-term wellbeing. In this guide, you’ll discover what veterinary surgery in Lakeland involves, when it’s needed, how we support your pet before, during, and after surgery, and how our team partners with you throughout the process.
If you’re searching for a “vet near me” who can handle everything from routine to advanced surgical care, you’ll find a dedicated partner in our veterinary team at Pet Care On Highland. We invite you to read on to learn more about our approach, the types of surgeries we offer, and what you can expect at every stage. For more details about our range of surgical options, you can also explore our veterinary surgical services page.
At some point during your pet’s life, surgery may become necessary either as part of preventive care or as treatment for an illness or injury. Understanding when surgery might be needed can help you act quickly and seek the right care for your companion.
Common reasons pets require surgical intervention include routine procedures such as spaying and neutering, which are essential for population control and disease prevention. Other scenarios include dental extractions due to advanced dental disease, removal of masses or tumors, repair of injuries such as torn ligaments or fractures, and treatment of internal issues like bladder stones or gastrointestinal obstructions. Signs that your pet may need surgical assessment can include persistent pain, swelling, limping, difficulty eating, abnormal bleeding, wounds that do not heal, or changes in behavior such as withdrawal or aggression due to discomfort.
If your pet is showing any of these symptoms, or if you have been advised by another veterinarian to seek surgical consultation, our veterinary professionals in Lakeland are here to help. Early intervention by a skilled veterinary team can make a significant difference in your pet’s recovery and quality of life.
Veterinary surgery in Lakeland is recommended for a variety of reasons, each with unique causes and implications for your pet’s health. Routine surgeries like spay and neuter are often performed to prevent unwanted litters, reduce the risk of certain cancers, and address behavioral concerns. Dental surgeries may become necessary when pets experience severe periodontal disease, loose or broken teeth, or oral tumors.
In some cases, surgical care is required following trauma or injury. For example, a pet that is hit by a car may need orthopedic surgery to repair fractures or torn ligaments. Other surgical procedures address internal health problems such as removing bladder stones that block urination, excising growths discovered during a physical exam, or addressing gastrointestinal blockages caused by foreign object ingestion.
Underlying causes for these conditions can range from genetic predisposition and age-related changes to environmental factors such as diet, accidents, or exposure to toxins. Our veterinarians in Lakeland utilize advanced diagnostic tools—including digital radiology and ultrasound—to accurately determine the need for surgery and plan the safest, most effective approach for your pet.
When your pet is scheduled for surgery at Pet Care On Highland, our focus is on delivering the safest and most comfortable experience possible. The process begins with a pre-surgical evaluation where our veterinary team conducts a thorough physical examination and reviews your pet’s medical history. Diagnostic tests, such as bloodwork or imaging studies, may be recommended to assess organ function and detect any hidden concerns that could impact anesthesia or recovery.
On the day of surgery, your pet is admitted in the morning and receives individualized care from our veterinary professionals. We use modern anesthesia protocols, tailored pain management solutions, and advanced monitoring equipment to ensure your pet’s safety throughout the procedure. Our pain management, monitoring, and anesthesia services are designed to minimize discomfort and support a smooth recovery.
After the procedure, your pet is closely observed in our recovery area until they are fully awake and stable. We provide detailed discharge instructions so you know how to care for your pet at home, what signs to monitor for, and when to return for follow-up care. For more information on what’s involved in pre- and post-operative care, visit our page dedicated to pain management, monitoring, and anesthesia.
Our veterinary team is equipped to perform a wide range of pet surgical procedures in Lakeland, including but not limited to:
Spay and neuter surgeries for dogs and cats
Dental surgeries, such as extractions and advanced cleanings
Soft tissue surgeries, covering mass removals, bladder stone extraction, and gastrointestinal procedures
Orthopedic surgeries for bone and joint injuries
Emergency surgical care for urgent injuries or illness
For pet owners interested in learning more about routine spay and neuter procedures, we provide detailed guidance on our spay and neuter services page.
Successful surgical outcomes depend not only on what happens at the clinic, but also on the care your pet receives at home. Following your pet’s surgery, it is important to adhere closely to the instructions provided by our veterinarians. Key steps include keeping the surgical incision clean and dry, monitoring for signs of infection such as redness, swelling, or discharge, and preventing your pet from licking or chewing at the site. Pain management is a critical aspect of recovery; our team will provide you with appropriate medication and guidance on how to administer it safely.
Limiting your pet’s activity during the initial recovery period helps prevent complications and supports healing. You should also maintain regular follow-up appointments so our veterinarians can assess your pet’s progress and address any concerns. To reduce the likelihood of future surgeries, keep up with preventive care such as routine checkups, vaccinations, dental cleanings, and maintaining a safe environment to minimize accidental injuries.
If you are unsure whether your pet is healing properly or you notice any changes in appetite, behavior, or the appearance of the incision, contact our clinic promptly. Our team is always available to provide advice and, when needed, schedule a recheck to ensure your pet’s continued recovery.
Knowing when to seek veterinary surgery in Lakeland is essential for your pet’s health and comfort. Immediate veterinary assessment is recommended if your pet experiences severe pain, cannot stand or walk, has uncontrolled bleeding, is unable to urinate or defecate, or if wounds are not healing as expected. In non-emergent situations, such as discovering a lump or noticing persistent dental issues, it is wise to schedule an appointment for evaluation and discussion of possible treatment options.
If your pet’s condition changes suddenly or you are concerned about complications related to a recent surgery, do not hesitate to reach out to our veterinary professionals in Lakeland. We are committed to being your trusted resource for all aspects of pet surgical procedures in Lakeland and are here to answer your questions and support you every step of the way. For urgent needs or questions about surgical recovery, you can also refer to our urgent care and sick visits page for guidance.
At Pet Care On Highland, we understand that choosing a veterinary team for your pet’s surgery is a significant decision. Our commitment to safety, advanced medical technology, and compassionate communication sets us apart as a trusted provider of veterinary surgery in Lakeland. Whether your pet needs a routine spay or neuter, a complex procedure, or ongoing support during recovery, our veterinarians are here to guide you from the initial consultation through every stage of care.
If you’re searching for the best vet near me for pet surgical procedures near me, look no further than our team at Pet Care On Highland. We encourage you to schedule an appointment or call us at (863) 937-7914 to discuss your pet’s needs, ask questions, or plan for an upcoming procedure. For more information about our surgical offerings, please visit our veterinary surgical services page. Your pet’s health, safety, and comfort are always our top priorities, and we are honored to be your partner in their lifelong wellbeing.
This post is for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Always consult with your veterinarian for diagnosis, treatment options, and guidance specific to your pet’s individual needs.
