What is Laparoscopic Surgery and How Does it Benefit My Pet?
What is Laparoscopic Surgery and How Does it Benefit My Pet?

Advancements in veterinary medicine have opened the door to more precise and less invasive surgical techniques. At Parkside Animal Hospital, we’re proud to provide laparoscopic pet surgery in North Bay—a modern option for certain procedures in dogs and cats that provides a gentler experience and a faster healing process for your beloved companion.
What is Laparoscopic Surgery?
Laparoscopic surgery, often referred to as “keyhole surgery,” is a form of minimally-invasive vet surgery in North Bay involving two tiny incisions—typically around 5 millimeters in size. One incision is used for a small fiber-optic camera, and the other is used for specialized surgical instruments. While general anesthesia is still required, the overall physical impact on your pet is greatly reduced compared to traditional open surgery.
Why Choose Laparoscopic Pet Surgery?
While laparoscopic procedures may carry a higher upfront cost due to the advanced equipment and expertise involved, the benefits often far outweigh the expense:
- Smaller incisions result in faster healing and minimal scarring.
- Pets typically experience a faster recovery—many are back to normal activity within 72 hours.
- Postoperative pain is reduced by up to 65%, often requiring less pain medication.
- There’s a lower risk of complications such as infection or internal trauma.
- The enhanced visibility provided by the camera allows for greater precision during surgery.
At Parkside Animal Hospital, we’re committed to providing faster pet recovery in North Bay through advanced, compassionate surgical care.
When is Laparoscopic Surgery Used?
Our veterinary team commonly performs laparoscopic procedures for spays, cryptorchid neuters, liver biopsies, and gastropexy (a preventive surgery for dogs prone to bloat). In some cases, laparoscopy is also used for exploratory purposes when imaging tools like ultrasound don’t provide a complete picture.
Each case is carefully evaluated to determine whether a minimally-invasive vet surgery in North Bay is the best course of action for your pet.
Postoperative Care and Recovery
Even though laparoscopic surgery often results in a faster pet recovery in North Bay, it’s crucial to follow all post-operative instructions. Most pets can stand, walk, and even go outside for short potty breaks or use the litter box within 24 hours of their procedure. However, we recommend avoiding running, jumping, or vigorous activity until your veterinarian gives the all-clear.
Compassionate Care Every Step of the Way
We understand how stressful it can be to hear your pet needs surgery. That’s why our team takes the time to thoroughly explain every option, answer your questions, and guide you in making the best choice for your pet’s health.
If you’re considering laparoscopic pet surgery in North Bay, or simply want to learn more about our surgical options, please don’t hesitate to contact us at (705) 223-3404. We’re here to help your pet heal with comfort, care, and the latest in veterinary technology.