Safe, compassionate surgical care for your pet

At My Vets  Irrawang & Thornton, we perform a wide range of soft tissue surgeries with a strong focus on patient safety, pain management, and gentle handling. We understand that the thought of surgery can be stressful, and our team is here to guide you every step of the way.

What is soft tissue surgery?

Soft tissue surgery refers to any surgical procedure that does not involve bones or joints. These are some of the most common surgeries performed in veterinary practice and can range from routine procedures to more complex operations.

Common soft tissue surgeries we perform

• Lump removals and biopsies
• Desexing (spey and castration)
• Wound repair and abscess treatment
• Bladder surgery (including bladder stones)
• Gastrointestinal surgery (e.g. foreign body removal)
• Ear and eye procedures
• Anal gland surgery

If your pet requires a procedure not listed here, our team will talk you through the options and whether it can be performed in clinic or requires referral.

Why surgery might be recommended

Surgery is often the best way to:

• Remove painful or potentially harmful lumps
• Treat infections or injuries
• Address internal problems such as blockages
• Improve your pet’s comfort and quality of life

We will always discuss all available options with you and only recommend surgery when it is in your pet’s best interest.

Your pet’s safety is our priority

Every patient undergoes a thorough pre-anaesthetic assessment before surgery. This may include:

• A full physical examination
• Pre-operative blood testing to assess liver and kidney function
• Careful anaesthetic planning tailored to your pet

During surgery, your pet is closely monitored using advanced equipment, tracking:

• Heart rate
• Oxygen levels
• Blood pressure
• Temperature

A dedicated nurse remains with your pet throughout the procedure to ensure their safety at all times.

Pain management and recovery

We take pain management very seriously.

Your pet will receive:

• Pain relief before, during, and after surgery
• Ongoing monitoring during recovery
• Take-home medications if required

Most pets recover quickly and comfortably, and we will provide you with clear instructions for care at home.

What to expect on the day

• Your pet will be admitted in the morning
• We’ll confirm the procedure plan and answer any questions
• Surgery is performed during the day
• We will contact you once your pet is in recovery
• A discharge appointment will be arranged with full aftercare instructions

When should you book a consultation?

You should book an appointment if your pet has:

• A lump or swelling
• A wound that isn’t healing
• Vomiting or signs of a possible obstruction
• Difficulty urinating
• Ongoing discomfort or pain

Early assessment often leads to simpler, safer treatment.

We’re here to help

If your pet has been recommended for surgery or you have concerns about their health, our team is here to support you.

📞 Call us or book online to arrange a consultation.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Is anaesthesia safe for my pet?

Modern anaesthesia is very safe, especially with proper monitoring. At My Vets, every patient receives a thorough pre-anaesthetic assessment, and we use advanced monitoring equipment throughout the procedure. A dedicated nurse is with your pet at all times to ensure their safety.

Does my pet need blood tests before surgery?

We strongly recommend pre-operative blood testing as it allows us to assess your pet’s liver and kidney function and identify any underlying issues that may not be visible on examination. This helps us tailor the anaesthetic plan and improve safety.

Will my pet be in pain after surgery?

No pet should be in pain. We provide pain relief before, during, and after surgery, and most pets go home with additional medication to keep them comfortable during recovery.

How long will my pet need to stay at the clinic?

Most patients are admitted in the morning and go home the same day once they are awake and comfortable. In some cases, an overnight stay may be recommended depending on the procedure.

How long does recovery take?

Recovery time depends on the type of surgery, but most pets start to feel much more like themselves within a few days. Full recovery may take 10–14 days, particularly if sutures are involved.

Will my pet have stitches?

Many procedures use dissolvable sutures under the skin, meaning there are no stitches to remove. If skin sutures are used, these are typically removed 10–14 days after surgery.

When can my pet return to normal activity?

Your pet will need to rest and avoid strenuous activity during recovery. We will give you specific instructions, but generally exercise is restricted for 10–14 days.

What should I watch for after surgery?

Please contact us if you notice:

• Swelling or discharge from the surgical site
• Excessive licking or chewing
• Lethargy or reduced appetite
• Any concerns about your pet’s recovery

Do you perform all surgeries in clinic?

We perform a wide range of soft tissue surgeries in clinic. If your pet requires a more complex procedure, we will discuss referral options to ensure they receive the best possible care.

How much does surgery cost?

Costs vary depending on the procedure and your pet’s individual needs. We will always provide a detailed estimate and discuss this with you before proceeding.