Questions for Vet before Anal Gland Surgery

[Kendra K. Rhoton]

Remington is having his anal glands removed Wednesday of next week.  Of course I have about a million questions written down that I want to ask the vet during our consultation at Purdue, but I wanted to make sure I wasn't missing anything. Below are my questions...

 

Please explain to us what you would do exactly during the surgery?

What are ALL the risks involved?

How many of these surgeries have you done and how many have been successful/failure?

Explain to us Remington's recovery period?

Tips on how to care for him and prepare our home?

Will steps and getting into and out of a car be difficult or should we stop him from doing certain things?

Will we have to bring him back to remove stitches or be checked on or can our regular vet do this?

Should I be aware of anything during his recovery process such as if a stitch would pop what to do?

How long until he is back to normal?

Pain medication instructions?

Will dogs treat him differently after the removal of the glands?

Certain things to do for the transportation of him back home?

 

The closer we get to the surgery the more I realize how nervous I am.  It's not that I don't think things will go smoothly... it just hurts my heart thinking about Remington being in any kind of pain and not understanding why.  I wish I could take his place.

 

I'm only 26 years old, so I'm definitely not experienced in this area or ever had to deal with something such as this.  Even though I feel prepared, my DoodleKisses Family always seems to think of things I haven't.  Please post other questions you feel might be important, helpful, or informative :)  Dan, Remington and I appreciate you all so much :)

 

 

 

[Eva (Lilo and Rocky)]

I would ask for the vet's cell phone or after hours number... just in case you need help in the middle of the night or after the office is closed! Best of luck!

 

[Kyoko]

I think you have a bunch of great questions!! I am so sorry that you and Remington have to go through such a tough time.

We will be sending out thoughts and prayer for the smooth surgery and recovery....

[Kendra K. Rhoton]

thank you for all the great additional questions!  I have them all written down :)

[Tina, Clover, Plus 5 More]

Kendra, it looks like you did your research and have a great list.  If I remember right, Remington's glands were deeper than normal and that was part of his problem.  If that's the case, maybe ask if there is additional risks.  There is standard open, closed and modified open surgicial techniques.  From what I've read, when the standard open technique is used risk of long term complications is about 13% higher then using closed and modified open.  Maybe ask what technique will be used, which one is less invasive.  Even though statics say standard open increases the risk, your surgeon may use this technique and have a high success rate.  So don't let it scare you if that is his/her preferred method.

I know it's hard not to worry, being a good pet parent that's what we do.  Try to remember it is a fairly common procedure and a small percentage have long term complications.  Keeping all of you in my prayers.  

[Pam & Trixie]

I think you have it all covered, You are a fantastic Mom to Remington.

We all will be thinking about him on Wednesday.  Hoping for a Nice easy recovery & much Success!

 Try not to worry, I know thats next to impossible.

[Bonnie and Kona]

Hoping you and Remington are doing well this week.