Pet Surgery in Minnetonka, MN
Finding out your pet needs surgery can feel overwhelming. Our job is to make the process clear, straightforward, and centered on what’s best for your pet.
At Glen Lake Animal Hospital, we provide veterinary surgery for dogs and cats in Minnetonka, Hopkins, Eden Prairie, Excelsior, and nearby communities. Our veterinarians perform soft tissue surgery, mass removals, spays, and neuters while creating individualized treatment plans for every patient.
We see a wide variety of pets, including brachycephalic breeds, sporting and performance dogs, breeding dogs, and plenty of “dogs with jobs.” These patients often have unique needs that influence surgical planning, recovery, and long-term care.
If surgery has been recommended for your pet, we’re here to answer your questions and help you feel confident about the next steps.
Soft Tissue Surgery for Dogs and Cats
Soft tissue surgery includes procedures involving the skin, muscles, organs, and other structures that are not part of the bones or joints.
Our veterinary team performs a variety of soft tissue procedures to help pets stay comfortable and healthy. Surgery may be recommended to remove abnormal growths, diagnose medical conditions, repair injuries, or address issues affecting your pet’s quality of life.
Every surgical recommendation is based on a thorough examination and tailored to the individual patient.
Mass Removal Surgery
One of the most common reasons pets are referred for surgery is the discovery of a lump or bump.
Many masses are benign, but some can become larger, uncomfortable, or medically significant over time. Early evaluation gives us the opportunity to determine whether monitoring, testing, or surgical removal is the best option.
Mass removal surgery may help:
- Improve comfort and mobility
- Prevent continued growth
- Obtain diagnostic information
- Address potentially cancerous tumors
If you’ve noticed a new lump on your dog or cat, don’t wait months to have it checked. Small masses are often easier to evaluate and treat than larger ones.
Spay and Neuter Surgery in Minnetonka
Spaying and neutering are important preventive procedures that offer lifelong health benefits.
Benefits of Spaying
- Prevents unwanted litters
- Eliminates the risk of pyometra (uterine infection)
- Reduces the risk of certain reproductive cancers
Benefits of Neutering
- Prevents unwanted litters
- Eliminates the risk of testicular cancer
- May reduce hormone-related behaviors
Our veterinarians will discuss the best timing for your pet based on breed, age, lifestyle, and overall health.
Surgical Care for Sporting Dogs, Service Dogs, and Breeding Dogs
Not every patient walks through the door with the same lifestyle.
We have extensive experience caring for sporting and performance dogs, service dogs, and breeding dogs. These pets often have different physical demands and long-term goals than the average family companion.
Whether your dog spends weekends in the field, works alongside a handler every day, or is part of a breeding program, our veterinarians take those factors into account when developing a surgical and recovery plan.
We also routinely care for brachycephalic breeds, including dogs that may require additional considerations related to airway health and anesthesia.
Specialty Surgical Referrals
Some conditions require advanced surgical expertise.
For orthopedic surgery and complex soft tissue procedures, we work closely with Twin Cities Veterinary Surgical Specialists. Their surgical team visits Glen Lake Animal Hospital monthly, allowing many pets to receive specialty care in a familiar environment.
This partnership helps provide continuity of care while giving patients access to advanced surgical options when needed.
What to Expect Before Surgery
Before your pet’s procedure, our veterinary team will perform a physical examination and review your pet’s medical history.
We may recommend:
- Pre-anesthetic bloodwork
- Additional diagnostic testing
- Medication adjustments
- Procedure-specific preparation instructions
You’ll have the opportunity to discuss the procedure, recovery expectations, and any questions you may have before surgery day.
Recovery and Post-Operative Care
Successful surgery doesn’t end when the procedure is complete.
Our team provides detailed instructions to help support healing at home. Depending on the surgery, recommendations may include:
- Activity restrictions
- Pain medication
- Incision monitoring
- Follow-up appointments
- Use of an e-collar
We’ll walk you through everything you need to know before your pet goes home.
A Practice Built on Relationships
We’ve cared for pets and their families in the Minnetonka area for decades. Today, many of our patients come from families who have trusted Glen Lake Animal Hospital through multiple generations of pets.
That long-term relationship matters when surgery is involved. We know our patients, understand their medical history, and work closely with their families before, during, and after a procedure. It’s one of the reasons pet owners continue to turn to us for individualized care throughout every stage of life.
Questions About Your Pet's Surgery?
If your dog or cat has been diagnosed with a condition that may require surgery, our veterinary team is here to help. We’ll take the time to explain your options, answer your questions, and create a treatment plan that’s right for your pet.
Call Glen Lake Animal Hospital at (952) 935-1232 to schedule an evaluation or discuss your pet’s surgical needs. We proudly care for dogs and cats throughout Minnetonka, Hopkins, Eden Prairie, Excelsior, and the surrounding communities.
Do You Have More Questions?
Call us today at (952) 935-1232
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions about Surgery
How will I know if surgery is the right option for my pet?
Every patient is different. Our veterinarian will evaluate your pet’s condition, discuss available treatment options, and recommend surgery when it offers the best path forward for your pet’s health and comfort.
Is anesthesia safe for dogs and cats?
Modern anesthesia is generally very safe. Every patient receives an individualized plan based on age, breed, medical history, and procedure type.
Should I have a lump removed from my pet?
Any new lump or bump should be evaluated. Early removal is often simpler than waiting for a mass to grow larger.
When should my pet be spayed or neutered?
The ideal timing varies depending on breed, size, and lifestyle. Our veterinary team will discuss recommendations specific to your pet.
Do you perform orthopedic surgery?
Orthopedic surgery is referred to Twin Cities Veterinary Surgical Specialists, who visit Glen Lake Animal Hospital monthly for advanced procedures.
How long does recovery take after surgery?
Recovery depends on the procedure. Some pets return to normal activities within days, while others require several weeks of restricted activity and monitoring.