EXOTIC ANIMAL SURGERY
ESTIMATES | breaking down the cost of care
We feel strongly that it is up to the veterinarian to arm you with the tools to make informed decisions. The subject of sedation - in exotic pets in particular - is clouded with worry and misinformation. Be prepared to ask critical questions of your pet's veterinary team.
Decreasing sedation risks in exotic mammals is directly correlated with the skill, experience and monitoring capacities of your clinic. Our stringent protocols include specialized anesthetic and surgical equipment, highly-trained veterinarians and licensed veterinary technicians.
Cornerstone is proud to provide the same exceptional standards utilized in exotic referral or university settings.
Decreasing sedation risks in exotic mammals is directly correlated with the skill, experience and monitoring capacities of your clinic. Our stringent protocols include specialized anesthetic and surgical equipment, highly-trained veterinarians and licensed veterinary technicians.
Cornerstone is proud to provide the same exceptional standards utilized in exotic referral or university settings.
$75 | PRE-ANESTHETIC EVALUATION
Examination Every exotic patient undergoes a thorough physical exam before their scheduled surgery date. It allows you to meet with a veterinarian to discuss the risks, benefits, and your expectations regarding the procedure. We generate an itemized estimate based on your pet's weight during this time.
$100 - $150 | DIAGNOSTICS
Bloodwork Laboratory testing is strongly recommended to look for preexisting health conditions that may interfere with anesthesia. The type can vary based on your pet's age and condition.
$100 | PRE-MED SEDATION
Anti-Anxiety Medications We administer the same anti-anxiety medications used in humans before a procedure to reduce the risk of prolonged stress, and can be completely reversed.
Multi-Modal Pain Injections Administering anti-inflammatory and long-lasting narcotic pain relief prior to surgery reduces the amount of anesthesia needed. Less inhalant anesthesia decreases the risk of complication.
Anti-Nausea Medication Although rabbits and some other exotic mammals are unable to vomit, maintaining their appetite reduces the risk of post-operative GI stasis, a life-threatening condition.
Multi-Modal Pain Injections Administering anti-inflammatory and long-lasting narcotic pain relief prior to surgery reduces the amount of anesthesia needed. Less inhalant anesthesia decreases the risk of complication.
Anti-Nausea Medication Although rabbits and some other exotic mammals are unable to vomit, maintaining their appetite reduces the risk of post-operative GI stasis, a life-threatening condition.
$80 | INDUCTION
Intravenous Catheter A specially-sized indwelling catheter is placed, allowing for the administration of induction medications, supportive fluid therapy, and emergency drugs if needed.
Induction Agent An exotic-safe induction is administered intravenously to allow our for placement of an endotracheal tube. This method is much safer and less stressful than an inhalant mask.
Endoscopic Intubation A special scope is used by our veterinarian and licensed veterinary technician to place a tube in the airway. This allows for direct delivery of oxygen and anesthetic agents that can be adjusted quickly for safety. Inhalant anesthesia is the first choice for any surgical procedure, and allows for a rapid and smooth recovery.
Induction Agent An exotic-safe induction is administered intravenously to allow our for placement of an endotracheal tube. This method is much safer and less stressful than an inhalant mask.
Endoscopic Intubation A special scope is used by our veterinarian and licensed veterinary technician to place a tube in the airway. This allows for direct delivery of oxygen and anesthetic agents that can be adjusted quickly for safety. Inhalant anesthesia is the first choice for any surgical procedure, and allows for a rapid and smooth recovery.
$150-250 | SURGERY
Sterile Surgery Suite A dedicated suite is used for the procedure, using the same sterile techniques as in any human surgery. It is performed using instruments designed exclusively for use in small exotic animals.
Continuous Monitoring The most common causes of complications are preventable under the care of an experienced and licensed veterinary technician. Electrocardiograms, pulse oximetry, dopplers and veterinary-specific patient warming units are used in conjunction with continuous monitoring of temperature, pulse, respiration, blood pressure and reflex assessments.
Residency-Trained Surgeon Dr. Keith Benson has extensive experience in the nuances of exotic anesthesia and surgery. You are entitled to know how your pet will be handled throughout their procedure.
Dedicated Recovery Nurse All exotic surgical patients have a dedicated postoperative recovery nurse, who will continuously monitor their vitals and condition until they are awake, moving, and eating on their own.
$50-75 | POST-OPERATIVE SUPPORT
Exotic-Specific Prescriptions Medications to go home for exotic patients are a deceptively expensive part of their care! Each one has to be formulated specifically for their species. Your pet's medications will be flavored according to their needs and dosing sizes to help with ease of administration.
Supportive Care We are equipped to provide any exotics-specific critical care needs for you to take home, allowing you to best support your pet through their recovery. This includes specialty-sized cones, or body wraps, individual cast molds or bandages, or critical care syringe feeding diets for herbivores, carnivores, or omnivores.