At Rappaw Veterinary Care, we provide comprehensive surgical services for pets of all shapes and sizes. From routine desexing to advanced orthopaedic procedures, our skilled team ensures your companion receives the highest standard of care. With modern clinics in Porirua and North Wellington, and compassionate support, we make the surgical experience safe and stress-free for both pets and owners.
Desexing Your Pet
Neutering, also called desexing, is generally advised if you do not plan to breed your pet. It benefits your pet’s long-term health and helps control the population of unwanted kittens and puppies in New Zealand. Many of these animals are abandoned or euthanised because suitable homes cannot be found.
Neutering can eliminate reproductive problems and reduce risks of certain cancers. It is routine for our veterinarians but a once-in-a-lifetime event for your pet, so we make the process as smooth as possible. We recommend desexing pets around 5–6 months of age, as the surgery is easier, anaesthetic time is shorter, and recovery is faster.
All pets receive pre- and post-operative pain relief to ensure comfort.
Pre-surgery instructions and consent forms are available here.
Recovery tips and post-surgery care guidance are provided upon discharge.
General Surgery for Pets
At Rappaw, our advanced clinics offer high-quality surgical care you can trust. Accreditation ensures separate operating theatres, qualified veterinary nurses, intensive monitoring, intravenous fluids, and mandatory pain relief. Many clinics cannot provide all these measures, giving our patients an extra layer of safety.
Our experienced team of veterinarians and nurses performs a wide range of surgical procedures using specialised equipment. Post-operative care is just as crucial as the surgery itself, and we work with owners to ensure smooth recovery. Pets can be uncooperative after surgery, but our team’s experience helps guide them through safely.
Pre-surgery instructions and consent forms can be downloaded
here.
Orthopaedic Surgery for Cats and Dogs
Orthopaedic surgery involves bones and joints, including broken bones, torn ligaments, and congenital defects. Not all practices perform these surgeries, as they require special instruments and techniques.
At Rappaw, we have invested in equipment and training to perform most orthopaedic procedures in general veterinary practice. Whether it’s a kitten with a fractured leg, a small dog with a dislocating kneecap, or a large dog with a ruptured ligament, we have the expertise to help. Our goal is to restore mobility and comfort for your pet efficiently.
Advanced and Referral Orthopaedics and Soft Tissue Surgery
Our dedicated surgical team provides advanced orthopaedic and soft tissue procedures for complex cases. We accept referrals on a case-by-case basis and work closely with clinics and owners to achieve the best outcomes.
Common procedures include:
- TPLOs for cruciate disease
- Luxating patella repair
- Fracture repairs
- Airway surgeries
- Rotational and advancement flaps for tumour removal
- Perineal urethrostomy
Contact us for advice on advanced procedures or referral options.
Veterinary Dentistry for Pets
Veterinarians are also dental specialists for pets, ensuring oral health contributes to overall wellness. Poor dental care can cause tartar, gum disease, infections, tooth loss, and even secondary heart and kidney disease.
Dental procedures at Rappaw are similar to human dental care, including cleaning, polishing, and extractions under general anaesthetic. Preventative care is key, so teeth are checked during wellness exams. Dental toys, chews, special diets, and brushing at home are also encouraged to maintain oral hygiene.
Speak with our vets or nurses to schedule a dental check-up for your pet.
Pet Surgery FAQs
At what age should my pet be desexed?
The best age is dependent on the species, and for dogs, it can depend on their size and breed. We recommend desexing cats around 5–6 months of age. Please contact us for advice on when to desex your dog/s.
Do all pets need dental procedures under anaesthetic?
Yes, most dental cleanings and extractions require anaesthesia, as pets cannot tolerate the procedure awake.
Can Rappaw handle complex orthopaedic pet surgeries?
Yes, we perform a wide range of advanced orthopaedic and soft tissue procedures and accept referrals from other clinics.
Is post-operative pain managed effectively?
Absolutely. All surgeries include pre- and post-operative pain relief, and our team provides detailed recovery instructions.
Trust our skilled veterinary surgeons for safe, professional procedures – contact us today to discuss your pet’s surgical needs.