veterinary surgery

Trusted Pet Surgery in Hershey, PA

We offer advanced surgical care in a clean, modern animal hospital environment with safety, comfort, and communication at the core of what we do. From spaying and neutering to mass removals and wound repair, we help ensure that your pet gets the care they deserve.

Surgical Procedures We Offer

At Hershey Veterinary Hospital, we perform a wide range of surgical procedures for dogs and cats, treating every case with compassion, whether elective or urgent. Our offerings include:

Spay Surgery (Ovariohysterectomy)

Surgical removal of the uterus and ovaries in female dogs and cats. Recommended around 6 months of age, ideally before the first heat cycle. Pets typically go home the same day, with two weeks of rest and limited activity advised. For cat or dog surgery in Hershey, the animals must have a current rabies vaccination, or they will receive it at surgery.

Neuter Surgery (Castration)

Surgical removal of the testicles in male dogs and cats. Recommended around 6 months of age. Same-day discharge with two weeks of rest and limited activity. Rabies vaccination must be current or will be given at surgery.

Lump Removals

Pet surgery

Includes removal of cysts, skin tags, and tumors. Early removal improves treatment outcomes and recovery. Procedures may use local or general anesthesia. Samples can be sent for histopathology. Pets are discharged the same day.

Bladder Stone Removal

  • Cystotomy: Surgical removal of bladder stones too large to pass naturally. Stones are submitted for analysis to help prevent recurrence. Blood in urine for several days post-surgery is normal. Same-day discharge with home care instructions.
  • Urethral Hydropulsion: Non-surgical flushing of small bladder stones under anesthesia. No incision required. Faster recovery and same-day discharge.

Dental Procedures

Includes professional cleaning (scaling and polishing) and extractions of damaged or infected teeth. A soft diet is recommended after extractions. Pets go home the same day.

Gastropexy

Preventative surgery for large or deep-chested dogs to reduce the risk of stomach twisting (GDV). Can be performed concurrently with spay or neuter. Requires 2–3 weeks of strict rest. Most patients are discharged the same day.

What to Expect Before Surgery

Before any procedure, we conduct a thorough exam and blood work to ensure your pet can safely undergo general anesthesia. You’ll receive written instructions, including when to stop feeding your pet, and what to expect during check-in.

  • Surgeries are performed by appointment Monday through Friday.
  • Pets must be dropped off between 7:00 a.m. and 8:00 a.m. on the day of surgery.
  • Your pet’s surgical procedure will be reviewed with you by the veterinarian, who will also perform a pre-surgical physical examination.
  • Do not feed your pet after 8:00 p.m. the night before surgery; water may be given until drop-off.
  • Pre-anesthetic blood work is recommended for all patients and required for all adult pets to ensure anesthesia safety.

We work closely with every pet owner to answer questions and ease anxiety. Be sure to consult your veterinarian if your pet has special conditions or is on medication.

Surgery prep

Our Commitment to Exceptional Surgical Care

As an AAHA-accredited hospital, we maintain rigorous standards for veterinary care. Your pet will be closely monitored by a dedicated staff member throughout anesthesia and recovery. Vital signs, including heart rate, temperature, and blood oxygenation, are continuously tracked. Special warming pads help maintain body temperature, and many surgical patients receive IV fluids during anesthesia.

Surgical patients recover in a quiet, separate area under constant supervision. Comfort is a priority; all pets receive appropriate pain management to ensure a smooth, comfortable recovery.

Post-Surgery Recovery

Most pets are discharged the same day as surgery. We will call you when your pet’s procedure is complete to provide a pickup time. You will receive verbal and written post-operative care instructions at pickup, including:

  • Pain medications tailored to your pet’s needs
  • Written post-surgery care instructions and activity restrictions
  • Feeding recommendations
  • Follow-up appointment scheduling
  • Tips to help your dog recover safely at home

Need help with home care? Call us, we’re happy to answer questions and help you care for your dog after surgery.

A cat at Hershey Vet

Trusted Pet Surgery in Hershey

We proudly serve dogs, cats, and small pets from Hershey, Hummelstown, Palmyra, Elizabethtown, Harrisburg, Lebanon, and nearby areas. For trusted pet surgery in Hershey, PA, contact Hershey Veterinary Hospital today or request an appointment online.

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