Surgical Service

Why Specialty Surgery?

As multidiscipline approaches to human healthcare have developed, so has specialization within veterinary medicine. There are now many surgeries that a pet may undergo that could benefit from the knowledge, expertise and attention of a surgical specialist. Your family may prefer for your companion’s procedure to be performed by a veterinarian with advanced training, experience and a firm knowledge of successful aftercare. If your pet requires surgery that is more than “routine”, consider utilizing the services of a board certified surgeon.

Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Specialty Surgeons:

1. What questions should I ask my veterinarian before proceeding with surgery?
a. Does the veterinarian perform this type of surgery often?
b. Does the surgery require special equipment and, if so, is that equipment available?
c. Would my pet benefit from the expertise of a specialist?
d. What should I expect regarding the surgical outcome?
e. What follow-up care is necessary and who will perform that follow-up?

2. How can I find out if a particular veterinary surgeon is board certified and how can I locate a board certified surgeon in my area?
ACVS certification can be verified at the Diplomate Directory of the ACVS website www.acvs.org. Your family veterinary practice may also be able to provide you with this information.

3. Does my pet really “need” a board certified surgeon?
Advances within the veterinary industry have produced a much wider variety of surgical treatment options, including highly specialized surgical procedures. Board certified surgeons spend at least four years post-veterinary medical degree focusing strictly on surgery. This concentrated focus provides the DACVS surgeon the skills and equipment familiarity requisite to successfully perform these procedures. Additionally, Veterinary Surgeons, by virtue of their focus, are able to keep up to date with frequent advances in surgical techniques. Many medical and surgical conditions that until recently, were considered incurable or inoperable, can now be treated safely, efficiently and successfully by a trained and experienced surgical specialist.


Ask us or your family veterinarian if you feel your pet might benefit from our specialty surgery services.