Your veterinarian will start with a CBC (Complete Blood Count) to determine the nature of the illness. X-rays and possible ultrasounds will follow with fecal and urine testing.
Once the diagnosis is decided upon, your dog will be prepped for surgery.
If this is a scheduled operation, your veterinarian will request your dog fast for 12 to 18 hours prior to the surgery. Many gastrointestinal resections and anastomosis procedures are a result of emergency care. In these cases, the veterinary anesthesiologist will keep a closer eye on your dog to avoid aspiration during surgery.
Your dog will be placed under general anesthesia and oxygen before the surgery begins. Once asleep and comfortable, your dog will be prepared for surgery. The dog’s abdomen will be shaved and cleaned. The surgeon will open the dog’s abdomen and isolate the intestines. After a full inspection, the surgeon will cut and completely remove the damaged or diseased portion of intestines, suturing or stapling the two healthy ends back together.
Your dog may require at least an overnight stay in the animal hospital. Depending on the surgery, your veterinarian may request the dog stay overnight for two to five days to yield faster recovery.
The internal sutures will dissolve as the intestinal area heals. The external sutures may need to be rechecked and removed a week or two after surgery.