July Spotlight: The Importance of Pre-Surgical Testing at PetVet Animal Hospital
Summer in Fishers brings more freedom for pets—long walks, backyard play, and everyday relaxation. But for pets scheduled for routine surgeries this summer—such as spays, neuters, dentals, or mass removals—proper preparation is essential. At PetVet Animal Hospital, pre-surgical diagnostics form the foundation of safer anesthesia and faster recovery.
Why Pre-Surgical Testing Matters
Many pet parents assume that routine surgeries are low-risk, but without advanced diagnostics, underlying conditions can go unnoticed. Conditions such as early kidney or liver disease, undetected clotting disorders, or mild heart murmurs may not show clear signs in physical exams alone but can profoundly affect anesthesia outcomes. Pre-surgical labwork helps our team evaluate:
- Organ function
- Hydration and blood cell counts
- Electrolyte balance
- Coagulation status
- Hidden endocrine issues
By understanding each patient’s internal health before sedation, PetVet’s veterinary team tailors anesthesia, manages intra-operative care, and prepares a safer recovery pathway.
What We Test Before Surgery
PetVet’s standard pre-op panel includes:
- Complete Blood Count (CBC) – Checks for infection, anemia, and immune system indicators
- Comprehensive Chemistry Profile – Assesses liver enzymes, kidney values, blood sugar, proteins, and critical electrolytes
- Urinalysis – Evaluates kidney function and screens for urinary tract disease
- Additional Tests (as needed) – Blood pressure, coagulation panels, or specialized screens for senior pets
Those dealing with older pets or patients with known health issues may require extra diagnostics, such as thyroid or cardiac evaluations.
Why July Is the Perfect Month
Fall holidays, travel, and back-to-school schedules typically crowd veterinary calendars later in the year. July offers a calm window to schedule both diagnostics and surgeries back-to-back—reducing overall appointments, stress, and time away from summer activities. Early preparation also allows time for results-driven adjustments, helping avoid surgery delays.
How Testing Enhances Safety
- Customized Anesthesia Plans: Bloodwork allows us to select the safest drugs and dosages tailored to a pet’s organ function.
- Fluid Management Guidance: Identifying dehydration or kidney issues lets us adjust IV fluids properly during and after the procedure.
- Warning of Hidden Risks: Detecting anemia, infection, or clotting tendencies allows us to treat in advance and minimize surgical complications.
- Rapid Result Turnaround: Our in-house lab provides real-time results, letting us proceed with surgery confidently—no waiting overnight.
A July Case Success
“Oliver,” a 7-year-old cat scheduled for a dental cleaning, had unremarkable physical exam results. However, pre-op bloodwork revealed early kidney disease. Armed with that insight, PetVet’s team adjusted anesthesia protocols, provided renal-supportive IV fluids, and monitored renal function more closely post-op. Oliver recovered smoothly, and treatment began well before clinical symptoms appeared.
What Pet Parents Should Know
- Bring recent bloodwork results if available, especially for senior pets
- Plan to drop off early in the morning, allowing time for results-driven decisions
- Expect brief in-hospital observation post-surgery as part of typical aftercare
- Discuss any health concerns—such as vomiting, weight changes, or lethargy—with staff during drop-off or consultation
Pre-Surgical Care: More Than Just Form
At PetVet Animal Hospital, pre-surgical diagnostics aren’t an extra—they’re essential. They not only help protect pets from anesthesia risks but also contribute to long-term health planning. By discovering hidden conditions early, we save lives and improve outcomes.
This July, ensure your pet receives the best preparation before surgery. With thorough diagnostics and expert care, PetVet Animal Hospital makes routine procedures safer and recovery smoother. Together, we give pets a safer, healthier future—right in time for fall activities.
Ready to schedule surgery or get pre-op bloodwork? Call (317) 792-8919 or visit us at 14065 Mundy Dr, Fishers, IN 46038 to book your pre-surgical consultation today.
