RRAEH'S

SURGERY SERVICE

Our Surgery Service provides advanced surgical care for pets, including orthopedic, soft tissue, oncologic, and neurologic procedures—all with a focus on safety and recovery.

SURGERY TEAM

Overview For Our

Veterinary Surgery Services in Fargo

At Red River Animal Emergency Hospital & Referral Center, we provide advanced veterinary surgery to help pets live longer, healthier lives. Our Surgery Service is available by referral Monday through Thursday with Dr. David Silliman and his skilled team. We work closely with family veterinarians to ensure seamless care before and after each procedure, and our hospital is prepared 24/7 for emergency surgical needs.

Ask your veterinarian to submit a referral or call us directly at 701-478-9299.

What Is Veterinary Surgical Service and Why Is It Important?

Veterinary surgery is the treatment of health problems through specialized procedures that restore function, relieve pain, and improve quality of life. From repairing broken bones to removing life-threatening tumors, surgical care often makes the difference in helping pets recover and thrive. At RRAEH, surgery is rarely a stand-alone solution. It works hand in hand with other specialties such as oncology, internal medicine, diagnostic imaging, and critical care to provide a complete treatment plan tailored to each patient.

When Is Surgery Recommended for Your Pet?

Surgery may be recommended when:

  • Pets experience trauma or fractures
  • Chronic pain affects mobility or quality of life
  • Foreign objects are ingested and must be removed
  • Tumors, masses, or abnormal growths are detected
  • Certain diseases, such as spinal disc disease, require surgical intervention

Every case is carefully evaluated with your primary veterinarian. Together, we determine whether surgery is the best option for your pet’s recovery and long-term health.

What Pre-Surgical Tests Are Needed Before My Pet’s Surgery?

Safety is our priority. Before any pet surgery, we perform pre-operative tests such as:

  • Bloodwork to assess organ function and anesthesia readiness
  • X-rays, ultrasound, or CT scans to guide surgical planning
  • Complete physical exam and anesthesia risk evaluation

These diagnostics allow our team to create a safe, precise, and personalized surgical plan.

How Should I Prepare My Pet for Surgery?

To help ensure the best outcome, pet owners may be asked to:

  • Withhold food for a certain period prior to surgery
  • Provide details about current medications or supplements
  • Bring your pet in a secure crate or on a leash
  • Pack familiar items to reduce stress during recovery

Our staff will provide clear instructions before the procedure and maintain open communication throughout the process.

What Veterinary Surgical Services Are Available at RRAEH?

Orthopedic Surgery

We specialize in procedures that restore mobility and reduce chronic pain. Common surgeries include:

  • Cruciate ligament repair (ACL tears)
  • Patella luxation correction
  • Bone fracture stabilization
  • Femoral head ostectomy (FHO)

Soft-Tissue Surgery

Our team provides a wide range of advanced procedures to treat internal and external conditions, including:

  • Foreign body removal
  • Bladder stone surgery
  • Trauma and wound repair
  • Liver shunt repair
  • Prophylactic gastropexy (to prevent bloat/GDV)

Oncologic Surgery

Working closely with our Oncology Service, we combine surgical planning with advanced cancer treatment. Common procedures include:

  • Tumor and mass removals
  • Splenectomy (spleen removal)
  • Lung lobe resection
  • Digit or limb amputation

Neurologic Surgery

Spinal surgery can restore comfort and function for pets with neurologic conditions such as intervertebral disc disease (IVDD). Our most common neurologic procedure includes:

  • Thoracolumbar IVDD repair

How Safe Is Anesthesia for Pets in Surgery?

Anesthesia is carefully managed by our trained surgical and ICU teams. Continuous monitoring is used throughout every procedure, including oxygenation, ECG, capnography, and blood pressure checks. With board-certified criticalists on staff and an intensive care unit ready for support, your pet is cared for with the same vigilance as human hospitals.

How Much Does Pet Surgery Cost?

The cost of animal surgery depends on the type of procedure, diagnostics required, hospitalization needs, and follow-up care. At RRAEH, we provide transparent estimates before treatment begins and offer consistent pricing regardless of the time of day. Our team will discuss all financial details with you, including available payment options.

Why Choose Red River Animal Emergency Hospital & Referral Center for Your Pet’s Surgery?

Families choose us because we provide:

  • 24/7 emergency surgery availability, ensuring immediate care for urgent needs
  • Advanced technology, including CT scans, ventilator therapy, ICU, and an in-house Blood Bank
  • A specialty-led team with board-certified criticalists and a dedicated surgeon
  • Transparent estimates, compassionate vet care, and complete record sharing with your family veterinarian

Schedule a Referral for Veterinary Surgery in Fargo

If your pet needs surgical care, ask your family veterinarian to submit a referral through our online portal, or call us directly at 701-478-9299. Whether scheduled or urgent, your pet will receive the same compassionate service around the clock.

Contact Red River Animal Emergency Hospital & Referral Center for trusted veterinary surgical care.

MEET

OUR DOCTOR

DR.

DAVID SILLIMAN

RESIDENCY TRAINED IN SURGERY