Holter Monitoring Procedure

When a pet needs to undergo surgery, even if the surgery is routine as with a spay or a neuter, a pet owner is often nervous about the possibility of complications occurring. While the potential for complications can never be completely eliminated, a pet owner can work with the veterinary team to make certain that the pet is properly prepared for surgery and recovers uneventfully after the surgery.

Preparing the Pet for Surgery

Prior to the surgical appointment for the dog or cat, the pet owner should contact the veterinary hospital for directions. Pre-surgical instructions will vary depending on the veterinary practice protocols, the type of surgery the pet is undergoing and the age and physical condition of the pet.

  • Often, fasting is advised prior to surgery so that the pet has an empty stomach when anesthesia is induced. However, in very young puppies and kittens, such as those undergoing early spaying and/or neutering, the veterinarian may prefer a shorter fasting period or no fast at all.
  • The pet owner should know when the pet is expected to arrive at the hospital
  • The pet owner should know when the pet is expected to be discharged from the hospital.
  • The pet owner should be ready to provide any documentation which the hospital requires (vaccination documentation, etc)

Performing the Surgical Procedure for the Pet

While surgical protocols will vary between veterinary practices, there are a few things which are pretty standard.