Hospitalization

Hospitalization is required in many situations including: after a complicated surgery, with severe infections, in cases of metabolic disease, if the pet will not stay calm enough at home to allow healing, if the patient is not willing to eat or drink on its own, and anytime supportive care must be given.  Hospitalization depends mainly on the health or response of the animal.

When hospitalized, animals are usually placed in an individual kennel and on IV fluid therapy.  Pain is evaluated and controlled through injections or a continual IV drip.  When the patient is hospitalized the doctor is available to assess the patient and make changes to the protocol as needed. There are X-rays, ultrasound, and blood machines on site to help evaluate the pet’s condition.  If an animal is not willing to eat, it is determined whether the animal would benefit best from withholding food, force feeding, or placing a feeding tube.  Vital signs are monitored routinely while the patient is hospitalized.  If their temperature drops, a heat source is provided in the form of a heat lamp, electric blanket, or warm air blower.  In these situations the temperature is monitored closely to prevent overheating.  For animals unable to walk or have difficulty moving a grate is provided to keep the animals clean and dry as well as thick bedding to prevent sores developing.

There are different medications given as the need arises.  Animals that aren’t eating or are diabetic may receive dextrose in the IV fluids to maintain blood sugar, animals that are nauseous or vomiting are given anti-nausea medications, for those fighting infection various antibiotics are available and can be given IV if needed depending on the situation.  Trained technicians help monitor the pet throughout the day and provide the necessary care and support.  We care about your pet and will do our best to get them better and back home to you.