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Obstruction

Obstruction

PRICING

  • Canine: Please consult with your Veterinarian for an estimate 
  • Feline: Please consult with your Veterinarian for an estimate 

What’s Included in Our All-Inclusive Surgical Package:

We’ve designed our pricing to be transparent, affordable, and all-inclusive—so you’re not caught off guard by unexpected costs later. Our surgical bundle includes:

      ✅ Surgical consultation upon admission with our veterinary team

      ✅ The surgery itself, performed by experienced veterinarians

      ✅ Take-home medications directly related to the procedure (e.g., pain relief, antibiotics)

      ✅ Post-operative appointments to monitor healing and recovery

      ✅ Follow-up radiographs and/or ultrasounds, if required, to assess surgical success

The only item not included is post-operative sedation, which may be required. If sedation is recommended for your pet’s comfort or safety at home, we’re happy to provide an individual estimate.


If your dog or cat is suddenly vomiting, lethargic, refusing food, or showing signs of abdominal pain, they may be suffering from a gastrointestinal obstruction—a serious and potentially life-threatening condition.

We diagnose and treat intestinal obstructions, including emergency abdominal surgery to remove blockages when needed. With prompt care, many pets make a full recovery and return to their normal lives.


What Is an Intestinal Obstruction?

An obstruction occurs when the normal flow of food and fluid through the gastrointestinal tract is blocked. This can happen in the stomach, small intestine, or colon, and the blockage may be partial or complete.

Common causes of obstructions include:

  • Swallowed foreign objects (e.g. toys, bones, socks, string)

  • Tumors or masses

  • Intestinal twisting (volvulus) or telescoping (intussusception)

  • Scar tissue or strictures from previous illness

  • Ingested hairballs or impacted stool (more common in cats)

An untreated obstruction can quickly lead to dehydration, infection, tissue death, and shock. Surgery is often the only way to remove the blockage and save your pet’s life.


Signs of an Obstruction

Pets with an obstruction may show:

  • Repeated vomiting (especially after eating or drinking)

  • Abdominal pain or bloating

  • Lethargy and weakness

  • Loss of appetite

  • Straining to pass stool or producing small amounts of diarrhea

  • Restlessness or panting due to discomfort

If you notice these signs, especially after known ingestion of a non-food item, seek veterinary attention immediately.


What to Expect During the Process
1. Consultation and Diagnosis

During your visit, we will:

  • Take a full medical history, including recent behavior and ingestion risks

  • Perform a thorough physical exam to assess pain and hydration

  • Conduct diagnostic imaging such as X-rays or abdominal ultrasound to confirm and locate the obstruction

  • Run blood tests using our in-house lab to evaluate organ function, electrolyte balance, and infection

If an obstruction is confirmed or strongly suspected, urgent surgery is typically recommended to prevent further complications.


 

 

2. Surgical Admission

On the day of surgery:

  • Your pet will be admitted and placed on IV fluids, pain relief, and supportive medications

  • We will perform pre-anaesthetic bloodwork to assess stability for anesthesia

  • Once stable, your pet will undergo general anesthesia and abdominal surgery (exploratory laparotomy)

  • The surgeon will locate and remove the blockage. In some cases, a portion of damaged intestine may need to be removed and sutured back together (intestinal resection and anastomosis)

The surgery usually takes 1–2 hours, depending on the complexity and severity of the obstruction.


3. Post-Operative Care and Recovery

After surgery, your pet will be closely monitored and cared for in our hospital. You can expect:

  • Hospitalization for 1–3 days, depending on your pet’s condition

  • Ongoing IV fluids, antibiotics, and pain management

  • A carefully reintroduced bland diet once your pet can eat again

  • Discharge with oral medications and written home care instructions

  • A suture removal appointment or post-op recheck in 10–14 days

Recovery at home includes:

  • Rest and confinement to limit activity for 10–14 days

  • Close monitoring for vomiting, lethargy, or changes in appetite

  • Feeding small, frequent meals as advised

  • Preventing your pet from licking the incision (an e-collar will be needed)


Why Surgery Is Often Necessary

While some mild obstructions may pass on their own, complete or complicated blockages require surgery. Waiting too long increases the risk of:

  • Intestinal rupture

  • Severe infection (peritonitis)

  • Irreversible damage to the digestive tract

  • Death

Early surgical intervention offers the best chance of full recovery.


Prevention Tips

You can help reduce the risk of obstructions by:

  • Pet-proofing your home (keep socks, string, toys, and small objects out of reach)

  • Monitoring your pet during playtime

  • Feeding an appropriate diet and avoiding bones or rawhides that can splinter

  • Seeking prompt care if your pet shows signs of distress or abnormal behavior


We’re Here When You Need Us

A gastrointestinal obstruction is a medical emergency—but with quick action and expert care, your pet has a strong chance of recovery. Our team is ready to provide rapid diagnosis, skilled surgical intervention, and compassionate support every step of the way.

If your pet is showing signs of an obstruction, or you’re concerned about something they’ve ingested, please contact us immediately.


Why We Bundle Our Surgical Pricing

We believe quality veterinary care should be affordable and stress-free. By bundling the full surgical journey into one straight-forward price:

      💡 You avoid unexpected add-on fees

      💰 You get excellent value for a comprehensive surgical care package

      💬 You know exactly what to expect—before, during, and after your pet’s procedure

This unique approach allows us to provide high-quality care at a fair, accessible price, without compromising on the comfort or safety of your pet.

We accept

Opening Hours

Mon - Fri 8am - 5pm

Sat 8am - 12pm

Sun Emergencies only

On Sundays, we are available for emergencies only. For any urgent matters, please call our emergency number.
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