Decision Making
Our goal at Thrive is for you and your pet to have a positive experience throughout the process of surgery. We never want our pets to require surgery, but often surgical treatment can improve both quality of life and overall lifespan. However, it is important to understand that just because we can do surgery, doesn’t mean it is the best option for you and your pet. We encourage you to ask all your questions, as we want you to be confident in your decision on the day of surgery.
Surgery Consultation
At your initial consultation with Dr. Serratore (whether in person on via phone), you will discuss the available treatment options for your pet’s condition, surgical risks, potential outcomes, and aftercare expectations. Your primary veterinarian will later provide you with a surgical estimate that includes both Dr. Serratore’s surgery estimate and the host hospital’s estimate for pre- and post-operative care.
Aftercare Preparation
Once surgery is scheduled, we recommend preparing your house for the aftercare process. Regardless of the type of surgery, all pets will need to be confined and activity restricted for a period of time. No running, jumping, staircases, or rough play, and outside only on a leash. Consider whether you need to purchase a crate, corral, or baby gates. Any e-collars, slings, or harnesses recommended after the procedure will be provided the day of surgery. If you are interested in an alternative to the e-collar, you may consider purchasing a lick sleeve (see the Resources tab).
Fasting and Oral Medications
To minimize the risk of vomiting under anesthesia, pets need to be fasted prior to a scheduled surgery. Unless otherwise instructed, pets should not receive food after midnight on the day before surgery, but water is ok. The majority of oral medications can be administered like normal the morning of surgery. You can use a very small treat if needed for the pilling process. Don’t hesitate to ask your primary veterinarian if you are unsure about whether a medication should be given the day of surgery.
Payment
Thrive invoices the host hospital for all services provided (including initial phone consultations) and these charges are passed on to you by the hospital at the time of service. All clients are encouraged to consider CareCredit financing (https://www.carecredit.com).
Find out What Your Neighbors Are Saying About Us
Dr. Serratore performed surgery on my 11-year-old male GSD on Thursday, November 3rd to remove a large and probably malignant tumor from his throat. She did a magnificent job, and my boy (Qanuk) was able to come home with me Thursday afternoon. He is doing just great, eating well and wanting to play! Dr. Serratore was extremely professional and worked very hard to give me all of our options along with their pros and cons. I cannot thank her enough for her efforts! I would VERY highly recommend Dr. Serratore to anyone looking for a skilled, caring and professional veterinary surgeon.
Bill Waz
Dr. Serratore is very knowledgeable and professional. Our pet needed a complex surgery, and we were very nervous about it. She was wonderful and took the time to answer all of our questions. We greatly appreciated her attention to detail and commitment to providing the best possible care for her patients. She and her staff go above and beyond to ensure her patients receive the highest level of care possible and that the pet owner(s) feel supported.
Vik Buzzard
My 11 year old Rottweiler needed a complex surgery last month for an anal mass. Dr. Serratore was amazing, we are so very grateful to her, and her staff. Mr. Roo/Hans is doing fantastic, he will turn 12 years old in May. We cannot thank her enough for everything. I highly recommend Dr. Serratore, if your pet needs a highly skilled veterinary surgeon she is the best!
Joette Shaw
Happy patient from 2023