Advanced Surgery

Cryptorchidism: Cryptorchidism is a condition that affects male dogs and cats in which one or both testicles fail to descend into the scrotum, which typically occurs around 6–16 weeks of age. Treating cryptorchidism requires a surgical procedure known as "orchidectomy" or "cryptorchid neuter." The procedure involves the removal of the undescended testicle(s), which helps prevent a host of health complications.

Pyometra: Pyometra is a serious condition typically affecting unspayed female cats and dogs. It is characterized by a severe uterine infection that leads to it filling with pus. Symptoms may include decreased appetite, a painful or enlarged abdomen, and pus-like vaginal discharge. Emergency surgery involves the removal of the uterus and providing supportive care to prevent life-threatening complications.

Mastectomy: Mammary or breast tumors are common in female pets, especially those who are not spayed, but can sometimes affect male dogs and cats. Mastectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of one or more mammary glands when a pet is diagnosed with mammary tumors. While mammary tumors are often benign, they can also be highly malignant and may metastasize without prompt intervention.

Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV): Also known as bloat, GDV is a life-threatening condition that develops when the stomach swells up with air and then twists on itself, which can cut off blood flow to vital organs. Without prompt surgical intervention to untwist the stomach to its normal position, GDV can lead to serious complications and even death. During the procedure, we will also check for and remove any damaged tissues and may perform a gastropexy, which involves suturing the stomach to the abdominal wall to prevent future twisting.

Exploratory: At Horizon Veterinary | Animal Clinic & Surgical Center, we always opt for the most conservative diagnostic tools possible to provide our furry patients with the highest quality care. However, there are times when diagnostic imaging fails to reveal the causes of your pet's distress. In these cases, we may recommend exploratory surgery to diagnose conditions affecting internal organs, such as abnormalities, tumors, blockages, internal bleeding, and more.

Foreign Body Removal: Pets are naturally curious and notorious for swallowing household objects, small items of clothing, or small toys. These can sometimes become lodged in their digestive systems, causing intestinal obstructions. When this happens, food and liquids can't move through the obstructed area. Emergency surgery is required to remove the foreign body obstruction and prevent life-threatening complications.

Bladder Stone Removal: Bladder stones can cause a host of complications, including severe pain, inflammation, difficulty urinating, and blockages. Bladder stone removal, a procedure known as cystotomy, is performed to remove bladder stones and obstructions, relieving your pet's discomfort and reducing the risk of complications.

Splenectomy: The spleen is an organ located below the stomach in the center of the abdomen. It plays a critical role in your pet's immune and circulatory systems. If the spleen ruptures, develops a mass or cyst, or twists around its blood vessels, a condition known as splenic torsion, we may need to remove it in a procedure known as a splenectomy. Immediate surgical intervention can be life-saving for your pet.

Stenotic Nares Correction: Stenotic nares are narrowed nostrils that can cause breathing difficulties in certain flat-faced breeds like pugs and bulldogs. The congenital condition restricts airflow through the nostrils, making breathing challenging, especially during exercise or when stressed. Surgical correction involves widening the nostrils to facilitate easier breathing, which helps lower the risk of respiratory distress and enhances your pet's quality of life.

Elongated Soft Palate Correction: Elongated soft palate correction is a surgical procedure often required in dogs with brachycephalic syndrome, which is common among flat-faced breeds like bulldogs, pugs, and French bulldogs. These breeds tend to have shorter skulls, which can lead to the soft palate, the soft part at the back of the roof of the mouth, being too long for their shortened airways. This excess tissue can partially block the airway, interfering with breathing. Surgery involves reducing the length of the soft palate so that it no longer obstructs the airway.