Soft-Tissue Surgery for Pets in Scottsdale, AZ

What Is Soft-Tissue Surgery for Pets, and When Is It Recommended?

Soft-tissue surgery refers to any veterinary surgical procedure that doesn’t involve bones, joints, or the nervous system. These surgeries may be medically necessary, corrective, or, in some cases, life-saving. If your pet has a suspicious mass, internal obstruction, or traumatic injury, surgical treatment may be the most effective path to healing.

From tumor removals to bladder stone extractions and laceration repairs, soft-tissue veterinary surgeons are often called on to treat conditions that can’t be resolved through medication or lifestyle changes alone. Whether the goal is comfort, improved function, or urgent intervention, we’re here to provide solutions that meet your pet’s needs with care and precision.

How Do I Know If My Dog or Cat Needs Soft-Tissue Surgery?

Some conditions that require pet surgery are obvious, while others develop quietly over time. Common signs that your dog or cat may need surgical care include:

• Vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite (may indicate a foreign body)
• A visible lump, bump, or swelling
• Persistent lameness or soft tissue injury
• Chronic skin infections or draining abscesses
• Difficulty urinating or blood in the urine (possible bladder stones)

If your pet is showing these symptoms, our team will perform a thorough diagnostic evaluation to determine whether surgery is appropriate.

What Soft-Tissue Vet Procedures Are Available at Kaibab Animal Hospital?

At Kaibab Animal Hospital, we offer a broad range of soft-tissue procedures for dogs and cats, including:

• Mass removals (skin tags, tumors)
• Enucleation (eye removal)
• BOAS surgery (for brachycephalic breeds)
• Abdominal exploratory
• Foreign body removal
• Cystotomy (bladder stone surgery)
• Splenectomy
• Hernia repair
• Perineal urethrostomy
• Vulvoplasty
• Anal sacculectomy
• Dog bite and laceration repairs
• Toe and limb amputations
• Biopsies
• Cesarean Sections
• And more, please contact us if you are looking for a specific surgery that is not listed above.

What Anesthesia and Pain Management Protocols Are Used During Pet Surgeries?

Your pet’s comfort and safety are our top priorities. Before every procedure, we perform pre-operative bloodwork to assess liver and kidney function and ensure your pet is healthy enough for anesthesia.

• An IV catheter is placed to administer fluids and medications.
• Anti-nausea medications are given to reduce the risk of vomiting during recovery.
• Each patient receives an individualized anesthesia plan, tailored to their age, health status, and the type of procedure.
• During surgery, pets are continuously monitored using advanced equipment, including ECG, capnography, and blood pressure monitors.
• Pain is managed proactively using a multimodal approach, which may include injectable medications, oral pain relief, and local nerve blocks.

What Is the Typical Recovery Time After Soft-Tissue Surgery for Pets?

Most pets begin healing quickly after surgery. In general:

• Minor procedures (such as small mass removals) require about 3–5 days of recovery.
• Major abdominal or reconstructive surgeries may require 10–14+ days, depending on complexity.

Your pet’s recovery timeline may vary based on their age, size, and overall health. We’ll provide a clear post-operative plan so you’ll know exactly what to expect.

What Post-Op Care Instructions Will My Vet Provide After Soft-Tissue Surgery?

When your pet is ready to go home, our team will review all post-operative care instructions with you. These typically include:

• Giving pain medications as prescribed
• Using an e-collar or cone to prevent licking
• Restricting activity and avoiding jumping or running
• Monitoring the surgical site for swelling, redness, or discharge
• Returning for a follow-up exam within the recommended timeframe

Follow discharge instructions closely to help your pet heal quickly and avoid complications.

How Much Does Pet Soft-Tissue Surgery Cost?

The cost of pet surgery can vary significantly based on:

• The type and complexity of the procedure
• Your pet’s size and overall condition
• Whether diagnostic testing or additional medications are needed

We understand that cost is a concern for many families. Our team will provide a personalized estimate before surgery, and we’re happy to discuss financing options, including CareCredit, and help you with pet insurance claims if applicable.

Why Choose Kaibab Animal Hospital for Your Pet’s Surgery?

We don’t just perform surgeries—we support pets and their families through every step of the process.

• Our doctors have advanced training and hands-on experience in a wide variety of procedures.
• Every surgical patient is assigned one veterinarian and two dedicated technicians to ensure consistency and support throughout their care.
• We offer on-site emergency and urgent care services when timing is critical.
• Our team provides compassionate, one-on-one communication, so you’ll always feel informed and supported.
• We use advanced diagnostics and safe, modern surgical protocols to deliver outstanding results.
• When appropriate, we may also recommend integrative therapies such as acupuncture, cold laser therapy, or ozone therapy to support healing and comfort during recovery.