About Animal Radiology

Our diagnostic imaging systems consist of a Carestream Direct View CR Radiology unit for rapid interpretation and two ultrasound units.

Although most of our services are provided in-house , we also offer an equine portable service to the regional equine owners of the Lowveld.

About Exotic Animal Surgery

Advanced planning, exactness, speed, and a steady hand are necessary prerequisites for avian and exotic animal surgery. Heavy demands are placed on the exotic animal surgeon when handling fragile tissues, working in small tight spaces, using miniaturized instruments, and operating with the use of magnification such as an ocular loupe.

Once a patient has been approved for surgery, anesthesia is begun, typically consisting of isoflurane gas in combination with other anesthetic agents. Close monitoring of heart rate, respiratory rate, and body temperature is performed by an experienced technician.

Body heat conservation is achieved by a recirculating hot water blanket. Anesthesia is a major component of any surgical procedure and more on this subject can be read in our anesthesia section.

About

About Small Animal Surgery

We understand that anticipating a pet’s surgical procedure can produce a number of questions and cause concern for his or her well-being. Please know that we are committed to your pet’s comfort and your peace-of-mind in this stressful time. Please read through the information below and feel free to call us with any additional questions. 

Day of surgery

When you schedule the surgery, you will also schedule a drop-off time, usually the morning of the planned procedure. While dropping your pet off, our staff will ask you to fill out some forms and sign a consent form, which requires about 10 minutes of your time.

Throughout your pet’s entire stay at Wijkstraat Animal & Avian Hospital, we will ensure that he or she remains comfortable by actively treating pain in each patient. Our state-of-the-art surgical suite, featuring modern patient monitoring equipment, allows us to closely observe your pet throughout the course of the procedure.

After the surgery, our veterinary technicians will monitor and tend to your pet during his or her recovery. You will receive a call to notify you that your pet has left surgery and to schedule a discharge appointment.

Post surgery

At the discharge appointment, you will learn about what to expect and how to nurse your pet during his or her recuperation. Feel free to address any questions or concerns at this time. We will also gladly answer any questions that arise once you and your pet are at home. Additional appointments may be scheduled to supervise your pet’s recovery or to remove sutures.

Over the course of this experience, our staff will strive to serve you and your pet in every way possible. Thank you for entrusting him or her to our caring hands.