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Surgery

AAHA-accredited veterinary surgery in Duluth, MN. Spay, neuter, orthopedic, soft tissue & emergency care for dogs and cats. Call us today!
Veterinary Surgery for Dogs & Cats in Duluth MN

Veterinary Surgery for Dogs & Cats in Duluth, MN

Trusted care since the 1940s — where modern medicine meets small-town heart. Duluth Veterinary Hospital provides advanced surgical services for dogs and cats, blending decades of experience with the latest techniques and equipment. From routine spays to complex orthopedic repairs, the team is dedicated to keeping pets healthy, comfortable, and thriving.

Generations of Local Trust in Lifelong Pet Wellness

Generations of pet families have chosen Duluth Veterinary Hospital for surgical care. The practice’s long-standing commitment to the community means that many of the veterinarians, technicians, and client care team members have cared for the same families’ pets for years — sometimes decades.

With advanced anesthesia monitoring and upgraded surgical equipment, we provide precise, compassionate care during every procedure. By following AAHA guidelines and incorporating Fear Free and Cat Friendly techniques, we create a calmer, safer experience for pets and their families.

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Our Core Surgical Services

1. Spay & Neuter Surgery

Spaying and neutering not only prevent unwanted litters but also help reduce certain health risks and behavior concerns. These procedures can lower the risk of reproductive cancers, prevent pyometra in females, and reduce roaming or marking behaviors in males.

Kittens are typically scheduled for surgery between four to six months of age. For dogs, we typically recommend neutering between 6-12 months of age and spays around 6 months of age. We do vary our timing for spays and neuters depending on the breed, health and lifestyle of each pet.

2. Soft Tissue Surgery

Soft tissue procedures cover a wide range of medical needs, from bladder stone removal to hernia repairs. These surgeries often restore comfort and prevent more serious complications down the road.

Using modern surgical techniques and advanced anesthesia monitoring, our veterinarians keep safety and comfort at the forefront. Recovery instructions are always discussed in detail so pet parents feel confident caring for their companions at home.

3. Pet Mass Removal

Lumps, bumps, and unusual growths should never be ignored. While some masses are harmless, others can be cancerous and require prompt removal. Early detection and surgical removal can improve outcomes and quality of life.

Duluth Veterinary Hospital offers mass removal for dogs and cats, with biopsy services to determine if the growth is benign or malignant. Each case is approached with care and precision, minimizing discomfort and promoting smooth recovery.

4. Orthopedic Surgery (TPLO & Fracture Repair)

We have a board certified surgeon do these surgeries for us (often times at our own clinic for convenience) but our general practitioners do not do the surgeries. We do offer this surgery as an option at our clinic- it just requires that we bring someone in with more training.

5. C-Section for Dogs & Cats

We don’t offer scheduled C-sections but will do emergency C-sections if warranted.

From anesthesia to post-operative monitoring, both mother and newborns receive attentive care. Our veterinary team communicates closely with owners so they know what to expect and how to support recovery at home.

6. Emergency Pet Surgery

Life can be unpredictable, and sometimes pets require urgent surgical care. Duluth Veterinary Hospital offers emergency surgery during regular office hours for conditions such as trauma, internal bleeding, or blocked urinary tracts.

If an emergency happens outside of business hours, trusted referral partners are available, and clients are given clear instructions on where to go. For emergencies, always call the hospital directly — urgent care cannot be arranged through social media or website forms.

Why Families Choose Duluth Veterinary Hospital for Surgery

AAHA-Accredited: Meeting the highest standards in veterinary care.

Fear Free & Cat Friendly: Reducing stress for pets on every visit.

Decades of Experience: Caring for multiple generations of pets.

Advanced Equipment: Modern anesthesia, upgraded surgical tools, and continuous patient monitoring.

Community Commitment: Partnering with local rescues like Animal Allies, RAGOM, and Carlton County Animal Rescue.

Our clinic’s location on London Road offers easy access for Duluth families as well as pet owners from Superior, Two Harbors, Cloquet, and Esko/Proctor.

What to Expect Before, During, and After Surgery

What to Expect Before, During, and After Surgery

Before Surgery

Pre-surgical exam and diagnostics

Bloodwork to assess organ function

Fasting instructions provided ahead of time

Pre-surgical medications offered to help reduce fear/anxiety/stress or pain and nausea

During Surgery

Advanced anesthesia protocols

Continuous monitoring of heart rate, heart rhythm, blood pressure, oxygen, and temperature

Individualized pain control

Active warming methods are used to prevent hypothermia

IV fluids are used to prevent dehydration and help maintain blood pressure. IV catheter is placed in case emergency medications are warranted

After Surgery

Post-operative monitoring until pets are fully awake

Clear at-home care instructions, including medication schedules

Follow-up appointments to check healing progress

Emergency & Urgent Care Guidelines

During business hours, our hospital can often accommodate urgent surgical needs. Calling ahead allows our team to prepare for immediate care.

Outside of normal hours, clients are referred to trusted emergency veterinary partners in the Duluth-Superior area. Phone contact is always required — no social media or email communication is monitored for emergencies.

Let’s Get Your Furry Family Member Back on Their Feet | Schedule Today!

Surgical care plays a vital role in keeping pets healthy — whether it’s a planned spay or neuter, a complex orthopedic repair, or urgent emergency surgery.
Duluth Veterinary Hospital blends modern medical expertise with personal, compassionate service, ensuring every dog and cat receives the attention they deserve.

 

At our clinic, we combine the precision of advanced surgical techniques with the warmth and familiarity of a trusted hometown veterinary team. From routine procedures to more complex surgeries, we utilize modern equipment and up-to-date medical practices to ensure the highest level of care.

 

What sets us apart is the way we deliver that care- with compassion, clear communication, and a commitment to treating every patient as if they were our own pet. Our team takes the time to get to know you and your pet, so you can feel confident and supported through every step of the surgical process.

 

Here, you’ll find both cutting-edge medicine and the personal connection that makes all the difference.

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Let’s Get Your Furry Family Member Back on Their Feet | Schedule Today!
FAQS

Frequently Asked Questions About Surgery

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We offer spay/neuter, soft tissue surgery, mass removal, orthopedic procedures (including TPLO and fracture repair), C-sections, and certain emergency surgeries during office hours.

We use advanced anesthesia protocols, continuous monitoring, and AAHA-accredited safety standards to ensure every pet’s wellbeing.

We’ll provide specific fasting instructions, review medications, and complete pre-surgical exams and bloodwork to ensure safety.

Recovery times vary by procedure, but most pets go home the same day. We’ll provide pain control and clear at-home care instructions.

Not after hours, but we can recommend trusted emergency veterinary hospitals nearby. During business hours, we often accommodate urgent surgical needs.