Your Pet's Safety Is Our Top Priority
We understand that the idea of your pet having surgery can be scary. You're trusting us with your family member's life, and we don't take that lightly.
At Richmond Animal Hospital, every surgical procedure is performed with the same level of care and attention, whether it's a routine spay or a complex mass removal. Dr. Sherman brings 11 years of surgical experience, and our entire team is trained in anesthesia safety and pain management.
What sets our surgical care apart
Modern anesthesia protocols
customized for each pet's age, health, and procedure
Continuous monitoring
of heart rate, breathing, oxygen levels, and temperature throughout surgery
Comprehensive pain management
before, during, and after surgery
Pre-surgical bloodwork
to screen for hidden health issues
Sterile surgical environment
to minimize infection risk
Post-operative care
with follow-up calls and exams included
Common Surgical Services
We perform a wide range of soft tissue surgical procedures right here in Richmond. No need to travel to a specialty hospital for most surgeries.
Spay & Neuter Surgery
Spaying (Female Pets):
Surgical removal of ovaries and uterus to prevent pregnancy and eliminate heat cycles. Also reduces risk of mammary tumors and eliminates risk of life-threatening uterine infections.
Neutering (Male Pets):
Surgical removal of testicles to prevent reproduction and reduce roaming, aggression, and marking behaviors. Also eliminates risk of testicular cancer.
Best performed at 6-24 months of age (we'll recommend the optimal timing for your pet's breed and size).
Mass Removal & Biopsies
Lumps and bumps are common in pets, especially as they age. We can surgically remove masses and send samples to a laboratory for analysis to determine if they're benign or cancerous.
When to have a mass evaluated:
- Any new lump or bump
- A lump that's growing or changing
- A lump that bothers your pet
- Any growth recommended for removal by Dr. Sherman
Early removal of suspicious masses can be lifesaving.
Laceration Repair & Wound Care
Accidents happen. If your pet has a deep cut, puncture wound, or injury requiring surgical closure, we can repair it promptly to prevent infection and ensure proper healing.
Foreign Body Removal
Did your pet swallow something they shouldn't have? Toys, socks, bones, and other objects can cause life-threatening intestinal blockages. We perform emergency surgery to remove foreign objects when needed.
Bladder Stone Surgery
Some pets develop painful bladder or kidney stones that can't pass on their own. Surgical removal relieves pain and prevents serious complications.
Growth & Tumor Removal
We remove benign and malignant tumors from skin, mouth, and other accessible areas. Early removal often provides the best outcomes.
Other Soft Tissue Procedures
We also perform:
- Cherry eye repair
- Entropion repair (eyelid rolling inward)
- Umbilical hernia repair
- Perineal urethrostomy (for male cats with urinary blockages)
- And more
From Consultation to Recovery
Here's what the surgical process looks like at Richmond Animal Hospital:
Pre-Surgical Consultation
Before scheduling surgery, you'll meet with our team to discuss:
- The surgical procedure and why it's recommended
- Anesthesia and surgical risks specific to your pet
- Expected recovery time and home care requirements
- Complete cost breakdown with no surprises You'll have time to ask all your questions before making any decisions.
Pre-Surgical Preparation
A few days before surgery:
- We'll schedule pre-surgical bloodwork to ensure anesthesia safety
- We'll provide detailed preparation instructions (fasting, medications)
- We'll answer any last-minute questions The night before:
- No food after midnight (water is usually okay until morning)
- Follow any specific medication instructions we provided
Day of
Surgery
Morning drop-off at 8-9am - we'll review consent forms and say goodbye. During surgery your pet receives:
- Pre-medication for anxiety and pain relief
- IV catheter for fluids and medications
- Safe anesthesia with continuous monitoring
- Sterile surgical technique and pain management
- Recovery monitoring by trained staff You'll receive a call after surgery with an update on how everything went.
Going
Home
Most pets go home the same day (late afternoon/evening). When you pick up your pet:
- Dr. Sherman will review the procedure and findings
- We'll provide written home care instructions
- We'll send pain medication home if needed
- We'll schedule any necessary follow-up appointments
Recovery
at Home
What to expect:
- Your pet may be groggy for 24 hours (this is normal)
- Activity restriction for 10-14 days (no running or jumping)
- Elizabethan collar (cone) to prevent licking the incision We'll call within 24-48 hours to check recovery progress. Follow-up exam in 10-14 days to check incision and remove sutures if needed.
How Safe Is Anesthesia for My Pet?
This is one of the most common questions we hear, and it's an important one.
The truth: Modern veterinary anesthesia is very safe when proper protocols are followed and patients are carefully monitored. Serious complications are rare.
How we ensure your pet's safety
Before Anesthesia
- Pre-surgical exam to ensure your pet is healthy
- Bloodwork to check organ function (liver and kidneys process anesthesia)
- Customized anesthesia protocol based on your pet's age, health, breed, and procedure
During Anesthesia
- IV catheter for fluid support and emergency medication access
- Continuous monitoring of:
- Heart rate and rhythm
- Respiratory rate
- Oxygen saturation
- Blood pressure
- Body temperature
- Dedicated staff member monitoring your pet throughout the procedure
- Modern anesthesia monitoring equipment
- Warm air blankets to prevent hypothermia
After Anesthesia
- Gradual recovery in a warm, quiet area
- Continued monitoring until fully awake
- Pain management protocols
Pre-Surgery Checklist
Help your pet's surgery go smoothly by following these preparation guidelines:
The Week Before:
✓ Schedule pre-surgical bloodwork if not already done
✓ Ensure vaccines are current (we can update at the pre-op visit if needed)
✓ Discuss any medications your pet is taking with Dr. Sherman
✓ Prepare a quiet recovery space at home (a crate or small room works well)
✓ Purchase an Elizabethan collar if you don't already have one (or we can provide one)
The Night Before:
✓ No food after midnight (this prevents vomiting during anesthesia)
✓ Water is usually okay until morning (we'll confirm)
✓ Give medications only as instructed
✓ Prepare for morning drop-off (leash, carrier, comfort item)
The Morning Of:
✓ No breakfast (fasting is required)
✓ Quick bathroom break before leaving home
✓ Bring any medications your pet is currently taking
✓ Arrive on time for your scheduled drop-off
✓ Bring your cell phone so we can reach you with updates
After Surgery:
✓ Have someone available to pick up your pet at the scheduled time
✓ Clear your schedule for the rest of the day to monitor your pet
✓ Prepare a quiet space free from stairs, other pets, and children
✓ Follow all home care instructions carefully
Schedule a Surgical Consultation
If your pet needs surgery or if Dr. Sherman has recommended a procedure, we're here to answer all your questions and help you feel confident about the process.
Questions about surgery? Send us a message