Advanced Pet Surgery in Fairlawn, OH
Compassionate and Modern Surgical Care for Dogs and Cats
When your pet needs surgery, it can feel overwhelming. Whether the procedure is planned or unexpected, we understand how important it is for you to feel informed and supported. At Copley Fairlawn Veterinary Clinic, Dr. Ashley Staycheff and our team carefully evaluate each patient before recommending surgery. Our goal is to protect your pet’s health, relieve discomfort, and guide you through the process with clarity.
We are proud to provide Fairlawn, Copley, and the surrounding Akron communities with advanced veterinary surgical procedures. We believe in utilizing modern medical technology and thoughtful surgical planning to support safe and effective outcomes. Just as importantly, we communicate with you before, during, and after surgery so you know what to expect at every stage.
We provide luxating patella surgery and MPL surgery for families in Fairlawn, Copley, and the surrounding Akron area.
Advanced Techniques in Veterinary Surgery
We are committed to maintaining a high standard of surgical care. Our team performs a wide range of procedures using careful patient monitoring and structured anesthesia protocols. We understand that surgery can be stressful, and we work to eliminate unnecessary worry by explaining the diagnosis, treatment options, and recovery expectations clearly.
If you have questions or concerns at any time, we encourage you to contact us. Open communication is an important part of your pet’s care.
Abdominal Exploratory Surgery
If your pet is vomiting, experiencing abdominal pain, or may have swallowed a foreign object, exploratory surgery allows us to identify and treat problems such as intestinal obstruction, foreign bodies, or abdominal masses. In some cases, biopsies are taken to better understand chronic digestive issues.
Soft Tissue Surgery for Dogs and Cats
Soft tissue surgery addresses conditions involving internal organs, skin, and non-joint structures.
Abdominal Exploratory Surgery
Learn MoreIf your pet is vomiting, experiencing abdominal pain, or may have swallowed a foreign object, exploratory surgery allows us to identify and treat problems such as intestinal obstruction, foreign bodies, or abdominal masses. In some cases, biopsies are taken to better understand chronic digestive issues.
C-Section
Learn MoreIf a mother cannot safely deliver her puppies or kittens, a cesarean section may be necessary. We monitor both the mother and newborns carefully throughout the procedure and recovery period.
Splenectomy
The spleen may require removal due to masses, rupture, or internal bleeding. Prompt surgical care can stabilize your pet and prevent further complications.
Mass Removal and Biopsy
Learn MoreLumps and growths are common in both dogs and cats. Surgical removal allows us to evaluate the tissue and determine whether additional treatment is needed. Early removal is often recommended when masses change in size or appearance.
Hernia Repair
Hernias may occur in the abdominal wall or groin area. Surgical correction prevents tissue from becoming trapped and reduces the risk of pain or obstruction.
Gastropexy for Bloat
Learn MoreCertain large and deep-chested breeds are at risk for gastric dilatation and volvulus, often called bloat. A gastropexy secures the stomach to reduce the risk of twisting. This may be performed preventatively or during emergency surgery.
Pyometra Surgery
Learn MorePyometra is a serious uterine infection that requires immediate surgery. Symptoms may include vaginal discharge, lethargy, increased thirst, or decreased appetite. Early intervention improves recovery.
Cystotomy for Bladder Stones
Learn MoreBladder stones can cause straining, blood in the urine, and discomfort. Surgical removal restores urinary flow and relieves pain.
Perineal Urethrostomy for Blocked Cats
Learn MoreMale cats are prone to urinary blockages, which can become life-threatening quickly. In cases of repeated obstruction, a perineal urethrostomy may be recommended to reduce future risk.
Eye, Ear, and Airway Procedures
Learn MoreWe perform entropion correction, cherry eye repair, aural hematoma repair, anal sacculectomy, and stenotic nare repair when medically necessary. In certain cases, enucleation or amputation surgery may be required to relieve severe pain or treat advanced disease. These decisions are made carefully and discussed thoroughly with you beforehand.
Orthopedic Surgery
Orthopedic surgery addresses bones and joints that affect mobility and comfort.
A torn cranial cruciate ligament, often referred to as the ACL, is a common cause of limping. TTA surgery stabilizes the knee joint and helps restore function and mobility.
When the kneecap slips out of place, surgical correction may be needed to prevent ongoing discomfort and joint damage.
Broken bones from trauma require stabilization to heal properly. Surgical repair restores alignment and supports recovery.
Intervertebral disc disease can cause back pain, weakness, or difficulty walking. In some cases, surgery relieves pressure on the spinal cord and improves mobility.
What to Expect Before and After Surgery
Before surgery, we perform a thorough physical examination and may recommend bloodwork to evaluate organ function and assess anesthesia safety.
During surgery, we continuously monitor heart rate, oxygen levels, blood pressure, and temperature. Pain management begins before the procedure and continues throughout recovery.
After surgery, we provide detailed discharge instructions so you understand how to monitor the incision, manage medications, and restrict activity when necessary. If anything concerns you during recovery, we encourage you to contact us.
Why Families Choose Us for Surgical Care
Choosing surgery for your pet is a significant decision. Families in Fairlawn and Copley trust us because:
- We take time to explain the diagnosis and treatment options
- We evaluate each patient carefully before anesthesia
- We monitor closely during procedures
- We focus on comfort during recovery
- We communicate clearly throughout the process
Dr. Ashley Staycheff and our team work together to provide thoughtful, individualized surgical care for every patient.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pet Surgery
How do I know if my pet needs surgery?
If your pet is limping, has a growing lump, vomits repeatedly, strains to urinate, or shows sudden behavior changes, we recommend scheduling an exam. Some conditions improve with medication, while others require surgical treatment.
Is pet surgery safe?
All surgery carries some risk, but we reduce that risk through careful evaluation, bloodwork, anesthesia monitoring, and structured post-operative care.
How long does recovery take?
Soft tissue procedures typically require about two weeks of restricted activity. Orthopedic surgeries often require a longer recovery period and follow-up visits.
Is anesthesia safe for older pets?
Many senior pets can safely undergo anesthesia. We evaluate organ function beforehand and adjust protocols based on your pet’s health.
Can some surgeries prevent future problems?
Yes. For example, gastropexy can reduce the risk of bloat in certain breeds, and early mass removal may prevent progression.
Get Started with Vello
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Introducing Vello
A Better Way to Stay Connected
We’re excited to announce that starting August 4th, our clinic is using Vello, a convenient text messaging app designed to make communication with us easier than ever. With the Vello app, you can easily get appointment reminders, request visits, text our team, and enjoy faster, more convenient service - all from your phone.
We encourage all appointment requests to go through the Vello app beginning August 4th, so you can enjoy a smoother, more connected experience with our team.
Schedule a Surgical Consultation in Fairlawn
If your dog or cat has been diagnosed with a condition that may require surgery, we are here to help you understand your options.
We will explain the procedure, discuss recovery expectations, and answer your questions so you can make an informed decision.
Get In Touch!
Different Procedures We Offer
Spay/Neuter
Spaying is the surgical removal of a female dog’s reproductive organs to prevent reproduction. Neutering involves removing both testicles in male dogs to render them infertile.
Exploratory Surgeries and Biopsies
Cytology involves examining cell samples under a microscope to help diagnose tumors, fluid buildup, or issues in organs like the liver or lungs. A biopsy is the surgical removal of tissue for detailed microscopic analysis of suspicious lesions.
TTA/CCL Repairs
A common knee injury in dogs is a tear in the cranial cruciate ligament (CCL), similar to the ACL in humans. This ligament helps stabilize the knee, and when torn, it causes the shin bone to move abnormally, leading to pain, lameness, and joint damage. Over time, this instability can result in osteoarthritis.
MPL Procedures
A luxating patella occurs when the kneecap (patella) slips out of its normal position in the groove at the end of the thighbone. This condition causes instability in the knee joint and can lead to discomfort or difficulty walking.
Amputation Services
Amputation is a surgical procedure to remove a pet’s limb, often due to cancer, severe injury, infection, or chronic pain. Forelimb amputations usually involve removing the entire limb, while hindlimb amputations are done at the hip or upper thigh. In some cases, modifications may be made to allow for a prosthetic limb.
Fracture Repairs
In many cases, surgical stabilization is recommended for treating fractures in pets. Unlike humans, dogs and cats often fracture major bones like the femur or humerus, which can't be easily treated with splints or casts.
Mass Removals
Finding a lump under your pet’s skin can be alarming and should be checked by a vet. Many are harmless lipomas (fatty tumors), but some may involve mast cells, which are part of the immune system. Proper diagnosis is important to determine if the lump is benign or cancerous.
Splenectomy
The spleen is a tongue-shaped organ located below the stomach with a texture similar to the liver. While dogs can live without it, the spleen plays a supportive role in overall health.
Cystotomy
Bladder stones are mineral formations that develop in the urinary bladder, ranging in size from tiny grains to larger rocks. They often result from bladder disease or inflammation and can appear as a single stone or a mix of various sizes.
Perineal Urethrostomy (PU)
A perineal urethrostomy (PU) is a surgical procedure for male cats with urinary blockages. It widens the urethral opening to make urination easier and reduce the risk of future obstructions.
C-Sections
A caesarean section (C-section) is a major surgery to deliver puppies, often done in emergencies when natural birth is difficult. Most dogs recover quickly, but if labor was prolonged before surgery, recovery may be slower and require extra care.
