07/02/2026
One of the most common things we hear is, "Is it safe to put my senior pet through surgery?" While this concern is completely understandable, the reality is that age is only one small piece of the puzzle.
Veterinary surgeons evaluate many factors before recommending surgery, including:
• Heart and lung health
• Blood work and organ function
• Underlying medical conditions
• Mobility and quality of life
• The type of procedure being performed
• Your pet's ability to recover
A healthy 13-year-old dog may actually be a better surgical candidate than a much younger pet with significant underlying disease.
Just as importantly, we consider whether surgery is likely to improve your pet's quality of life. For many senior pets, procedures such as cruciate ligament repair, mass removal, or treatment of painful conditions can restore comfort, improve mobility, and allow them to enjoy more of the activities they love.
Every surgery carries some level of risk, regardless of age. That's why we perform a thorough evaluation, develop an individualized anesthetic plan, closely monitor patients throughout the procedure, and provide comprehensive pain management before, during, and after surgery.
If your primary veterinarian recommends a surgical consultation, don't assume your pet is "too old." A consultation gives you the opportunity to discuss your pet's specific health, the expected benefits, potential risks, and all available treatment options so you can make the best decision for your family.
