When it comes to your pet’s health, you want the safest, most comfortable care available, especially for something as important as spaying. That’s why CityVet | Chamblee is proud to offer laparoscopic spay surgery, a minimally invasive alternative to traditional spay procedures. This advanced technique provides faster healing, less pain, and fewer complications, giving your pet a smoother recovery and a happier return to everyday life.
What Is a Laparoscopic Spay?
A laparoscopic ovariectomy is a surgical procedure where only the ovaries are removed through a small incision, instead of opening the abdomen with a larger incision. It’s performed using a tiny camera (laparoscope) and specialized instruments inserted through two small incisions, each about half a centimeter in length.
The camera gives the surgeon a detailed view of your pet’s abdominal organs, allowing for precise work with less disruption to surrounding tissue. After locating the ovaries, a vessel sealing device is used to safely remove them through one of the small incisions.
This technique is the gold standard in human surgery, and we’re excited to bring those same benefits to veterinary medicine.
What Are the Benefits?
Compared to a traditional spay, laparoscopic spays offer:
- Less pain: The procedure avoids cutting through large ligaments or muscle layers, significantly reducing discomfort.
- Smaller incisions: These tiny entry points lower the risk of infection and don’t require skin stitches.
- Faster recovery: Most pets are acting like themselves again within 24 hours.
- Lower complication risk: Especially helpful for larger or deep-chested dogs, where traditional surgery can be more challenging.
Our lead DVM, Dr. Bradley, at CityVet | Chamblee has been performing laparoscopic spays for over 10 years. Mentored early in her career, she’s passionate about the minimally invasive approach and believes it represents the future of veterinary care.
What to Expect Before and After Surgery
Just like with any procedure, we start with routine pre-operative bloodwork to make sure your dog is healthy and ready for anesthesia. The surgery itself typically takes 30 to 40 minutes, with just 15–20 minutes of actual operating time for experienced surgeons.
Afterward, most dogs are a little groggy for the first 24 hours but bounce back quickly. Your pet will go home with a surgical suit (instead of a cone!) to protect the incision sites. These suits are comfortable, help prevent licking, and support gentle healing.
You’ll receive pain medication and detailed home care instructions. Within a day or two, most pets are back to their happy, tail-wagging selves.
Is It Right for My Dog?
Laparoscopic spay is an excellent option for any dog, but especially beneficial for:
- Larger breeds
- Deep-chested dogs (like Boxers, Labs, and Bulldogs)
- Pets who need a faster return to activity
It’s also a great opportunity to add other minimally invasive procedures, such as prophylactic gastropexy, which helps prevent dangerous stomach twisting (bloat) in large breeds.
If your dog is scheduled to be spayed or you’re exploring your options, talk to us about whether a laparoscopic procedure is the right fit. We’re happy to explain the process, answer questions, or even offer a behind-the-scenes look at our surgery setup if it helps ease your mind.
Momo’s Story: A Real Example
“Momo” Clark, a nine-month-old English Bulldog, came in for a spay consultation, and like many Bulldogs, she has a deep chest and a sturdy build, which can make traditional spay surgery more difficult and uncomfortable. Her exam was normal, but given her body type and the need for a smooth, fast recovery, Dr. Bradley recommended a laparoscopic spay. The minimally invasive approach was ideal for reducing pain, limiting risk, and getting Momo back to her playful self quickly. Her procedure went beautifully, she had two tiny incisions, recovered comfortably, and was already back to her normal routine the very next day. Her case is a perfect example of how this advanced technique can make a world of difference for pets and their families.
Let’s Raise the Standard of Care
At CityVet | Chamblee, we’re proud to bring advanced options like laparoscopic spays to our community. This gentle, effective procedure helps your dog feel better faster, and gives you peace of mind as a pet parent.
Schedule a consultation with us to learn more. Your dog deserves the best. Let’s give them a healthier, happier start.