Pet Surgery in San Francisco
Surgical Care at SAGE SF
SAGE Veterinary Centers – San Francisco is equipped to handle everything from scheduled surgical procedures to urgent, same-day cases. Our surgeons have access to on-site advanced imaging, multiple state-of-the-art sterile operating rooms, and a 24-hour critical care unit, so your pet can be diagnosed, treated and monitored without being transferred to another facility.
Because our San Francisco hospital is open 24/7, our surgical team also works closely with our on-site emergency, oncology, internal medicine and neurology specialists. If your pet's case turns out to be more complex than expected, or your pet is transferred between departments, the right specialist is already down the hall. Every doctor involved stays fully up to date on your pet's condition and treatment plan.
Surgical Procedures We Performed
Our San Francisco surgeons perform a full range of procedures for dogs and cats, including:
Soft tissue surgery: abdominal and thoracic surgery, wound reconstruction and biopsies, including surgery to explore an undiagnosed problem
Orthopedic surgery: fracture repair and joint procedures for common issues affecting the hip, knee and elbow
Minimally invasive surgery: smaller incisions and faster recovery for eligible patients
Neurologic surgery: including IVDD (slipped disc) surgery and spinal procedures, co-managed with our on-site neurology team for pets with a combined orthopedic and neurologic diagnosis
Emergency surgery: swallowed foreign object, C-section, life-threatening internal bleeding, and gastric dilatation volvulus (bloat).
Because neurology, oncology and internal medicine are all on-site at this hospital, your pet's surgeon can coordinate directly with those specialists whenever a case calls for it.
What to Expect at Your Visit
Most surgical patients at SAGE San Francisco arrive through a referral from their primary veterinarian, though a referral isn't required. You're welcome to contact us directly, especially for urgent cases. If you're referred, we will coordinate directly with your regular vet to gather records and imaging ahead of your visit.
At your consultation, the surgeon will perform a thorough physical exam and review any records from your primary care veterinarian. They may recommend additional diagnostic imaging such as X-rays or a CT scan before discussing treatment options with you.
When you arrive, please bring:
Any prior medical records, bloodwork or imaging related to your pet's condition
A list of current medications and supplements
Your pet on a leash or in a carrier. Please withhold food the night before if surgery is scheduled. Your care team will confirm specific instructions.
After surgery, your pet recovers in our 24-hour critical care unit, where a dedicated team provides continuous monitoring, pain management, nutrition and hands-on care. Because our hospital also offers on-site physical rehabilitation, many pets can continue their recovery here rather than being referred elsewhere. You'll receive detailed written home care instructions before you leave, and our care team is available to answer questions at any point in the process.
Frequently Asked Questions About Surgery in San Francisco
Answers to common questions about referrals and emergency surgery at SAGE San Francisco
How do I get a referral to SAGE San Francisco?
Your primary veterinarian can refer you directly by sending records and imaging to our San Francisco hospital before your visit. If you don't have a referral, you're still welcome to contact us directly, especially for urgent or emergency surgical needs. Our team can help determine the right next step and, if needed, coordinate with your regular vet along the way.
Does SAGE San Francisco perform emergency surgery?
Yes. SAGE San Francisco is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, with a surgical team and critical care unit ready for emergency cases at any hour, including foreign body removal, cesarean section, internal bleeding and bloat (GDV). If your pet needs urgent surgical care, call ahead if possible, or come in directly. Our emergency team will triage and get your pet seen as quickly as the situation requires.
What conditions can be treated with non-invasive surgery?
Arthroscopy for joint evaluation and treatment; laparoscopy for abdominal biopsies and certain neuters, gastropexy and spays; and thoracoscopy for chest biopsies and select cardiac or lung procedures. Our veterinary surgeons will work with you to determine the best treatment for your pet.
Where is SAGE San Francisco located?
SAGE San Francisco is located at 600 Alabama St. San Francisco, CA 94110
Contact us at (415) 566-0540.