Veterinary Surgery at SAGE
Why SAGE for Veterinary Surgery
Every surgery is different, whether it’s a routine spay, neuter or mass removal; or a torn ligament, tumor requiring a coordinated cancer treatment plan, or an emergency that can't wait. SAGE Centers are equipped to help.
Every SAGE hospital is staffed by board-certified surgeons with years of advanced training. They work alongside our internal medicine and critical care teams, consulting specialists on-site for complex cases needing more than one doctor. If your pet transfers departments, every doctor stays current on their plan.
We also offer minimally invasive techniques, advanced imaging, and 24-hour critical care before, during and after surgery, so your pet’s recovery is monitored by the same team. Find your nearest location to meet your pet's care team.
Surgical Procedures We Perform
Our board-certified surgeons perform a full range of procedures for dogs and cats, from planned specialty surgery to urgent, same-day cases, using open or minimally invasive techniques. Procedures we perform include:
Soft tissue surgery: abdominal and thoracic surgery, wound reconstruction and biopsies
Orthopedic surgery: fracture repair, joint reconstruction, replacement and resurfacing
Oncologic (cancer) surgery: mass removal and staging, coordinated with our Oncology team
Reconstructive surgery: for pets recovering from significant wounds, tumor removal or traumatic injury
Minimally invasive surgery: smaller incisions and faster recovery, including arthroscopy, laparoscopy and thoracoscopy
Emergency surgery: foreign object removal, C-sections and bloat
After surgery, our Physical Rehabilitation team can help build strength, restore mobility and support a smoother return to everyday life.
What to Expect Before and After Surgery
Hearing that your pet needs surgery can be stressful, even when the procedure is routine. Here's what typically happens before and after your visit, so you know what to expect at every step.
Before surgery, your pet will have a pre-surgical workup to confirm they're eligible for anesthesia. This visit usually includes:
A physical exam and review of your pet's medical history
Bloodwork and, when needed, additional diagnostic imaging such as X-rays or a CT scan to plan the safest surgical approach
A conversation with your surgical team about anesthesia, what the procedure involves and any risks specific to your pet
Clear instructions on feeding, medications and what to bring on the day of surgery
Pain management and anesthesia safety are our top priorities throughout your pet's stay. SAGE addresses pain through multiple pathways, from medication to comfort measures like cozy kennel bedding, since reducing a pet's stress response can help prevent prolonged recovery, delayed healing and immune compromise. Our surgeons are also trained in techniques that minimize tissue trauma and inflammation, helping shorten recovery time.
After surgery, your pet will recover in a monitored setting before going home with detailed discharge instructions covering pain management, incision care, activity restrictions and any follow-up visits. For many orthopedic, neurologic or soft tissue procedures, our physical rehabilitation team can build a recovery plan to help your pet regain strength and mobility as safely and quickly as possible.
If you have questions before or after your pet's surgery, your SAGE care team is available to walk you through every part of the process.
Frequently Asked Questions About Veterinary Surgery
Answers to common questions pet owners ask about surgery, minimally invasive options and referrals at SAGE
Is minimally invasive surgery better for my pet?
For eligible patients, minimally invasive techniques like arthroscopy, laparoscopy and thoracoscopy typically mean a smaller incision, less post-operative pain, and a faster return to normal activity than traditional open surgery. However, not every condition is a candidate for a minimally invasive approach; some cases require a traditional technique for the best outcome. Your SAGE surgeon will evaluate your pet's specific condition, health history and imaging to recommend the safest and most effective option.
How do I know if my pet needs surgery?
Signs that your pet may need a surgical evaluation include:
limping or favoring a limb,
a new lump or mass,
ongoing vomiting or straining,
sudden collapse or severe pain,
or a diagnosis from your primary veterinarian that requires specialty treatment.
If your veterinarian has already recommended surgery, or if you're noticing a sudden or worsening change in your pet's mobility, appetite or comfort, it's worth having a board-certified surgeon evaluate them. Our team can review prior records and imaging to help determine the best path forward.
Do I need a referral for veterinary surgery at SAGE?
Many SAGE surgical patients come to us through a referral from their primary veterinarian, and we work closely with referring vets to coordinate care and share records. However, referrals aren't required for every case. Pet owners can also reach out directly, especially for urgent or emergency surgical needs. If you're not sure whether your pet's situation needs a referral, contact your nearest SAGE hospital and our team can help you determine the appropriate next step.
What types of pets does SAGE’s surgical team treat?
SAGE's surgeons treat dogs and cats of all breeds, ages and sizes, including patients with complex medical conditions.
Does SAGE perform emergency surgery?
Yes. In addition to scheduled procedures, SAGE surgeons are on-call for emergency situations at every hospital. Common emergency surgeries include removing a swallowed foreign object from the stomach or intestines, cesarean section for dogs and cats having difficulty with labor, surgery to address life-threatening internal bleeding, and correcting gastric dilatation volvulus (bloat). If your pet needs emergency surgical care, contact your nearest SAGE hospital right away.