Basic Surgery
Trusted Surgical Care You Can Count On
At Trailhead Veterinary Services in Billings, Montana, we know that even routine surgeries can feel overwhelming when it’s your pet. Whether it’s a spay or neuter, a lump removal, or another common procedure, we’re here to make the process as smooth, safe, and stress-free as possible—for both you and your pet.
Our team takes the time to explain everything clearly, answer your questions, and ensure you feel confident every step of the way.
Our Services
Safe and Reliable Surgery for Your Pets
Here are some of the soft tissue procedures we routinely perform to manage everyday health concerns and maintain your pet’s overall quality of life.
Spay & neuter
Growth and lump removals
Wound and laceration repair
Bladder stone removal
Foreign object removal
Abscess treatment
Gastropexy
Cherry Eye Correction
Eye Removal (Enucleation)
Soft Palate & Nares Resection
What to Know
What Is Basic Surgery and When Does My Pet Need It?
Basic surgery refers to common procedures that are performed under anesthesia to treat or prevent medical issues. These surgeries don’t usually require specialist intervention, but that doesn’t mean they’re minor. Every surgery deserves precision, care, and follow-up attention.
Spaying and Neutering
One of the most common procedures we perform, spaying and neutering help control overpopulation and reduce the risk of health issues.
Lump Removals
While many skin growths are benign, we often recommend removal and biopsy to ensure there’s nothing dangerous hiding under the surface.
Foreign Object Removal
Pets love to swallow things they shouldn’t. We remove swallowed objects to prevent blockages and other complications.
Bladder Stone Removal
We remove painful bladder stones to restore comfort and prevent life-threatening blockages.
Gastropexy
A preventive surgery that tacks the stomach in place to reduce the risk of life-threatening bloat (GDV).
Cherry Eye Correction
A procedure to reposition or remove the prolapsed tear gland in a pet’s third eyelid.
Eye Removal (Enucleation)
Surgical removal of a damaged or diseased eye to relieve pain and prevent further complications.
Soft Palate & Nares Resection
A combined surgery to open the airways and improve breathing in flat-faced breeds by trimming the soft palate and widening the nostrils.
Why Choose Us
What sets Trailhead apart is our focus on individualized care.
We tailor each surgical plan to your pet’s breed, age, size, and health condition. Your pet is closely monitored throughout surgery, and recovery is conducted with comfort and safety in mind. Pain management is always a top priority—your pet’s comfort matters to us as much as the procedure itself.
As a small animal clinic in Billings, we pride ourselves on offering top-tier care in a warm, community-focused environment.
Your Questions, Our Answers
Frequently Asked Questions
Is anesthesia safe for my pet?
Yes. We perform a full physical exam beforehand to ensure your pet is a good candidate for anesthesia. We also use modern monitoring equipment during surgery to track heart rate, oxygen levels, and other vital signs. If you’d like added peace of mind, we offer optional pre-anesthetic bloodwork to help assess your pet’s overall health before the procedure.
How do I prepare my pet for surgery?
You’ll usually need to withhold food for 8–12 hours before the procedure. We’ll give you detailed instructions based on your pet’s needs during your pre-op consultation.
Will my pet be in pain after surgery?
Your pet may be sore, but we use pain medication to minimize discomfort. We’ll send you home with instructions and meds to help your pet recover comfortably.
How long will it take for my pet to recover?
Recovery time depends on the procedure, but most pets bounce back within 7–10 days. We’ll provide clear aftercare instructions to guide you.
What’s the cost of a basic surgery?
Prices vary depending on the procedure and your pet’s specific needs. We’re happy to give you a transparent estimate and discuss options.
What if my pet has a health condition—can they still have surgery?
In many cases, yes. We’ll assess your pet thoroughly and may adjust the anesthesia plan or recommend additional precautions to keep them safe.
Do you offer follow-up care?
Absolutely. We schedule post-surgery checkups to ensure healing is on track and address any questions you have during recovery.
What happens if there are complications?
While complications are rare, we’re fully equipped to handle emergencies and provide immediate care if needed.
Can I see the surgical area or meet the team beforehand?
Of course. We’re proud of our facility and our team, and we’re always happy to give you a tour and walk you through our process.
Ready to Give Your Pet the Best Care?
We’re dedicated to providing personalized veterinary care to keep your pets healthy, happy, and thriving. Contact us today or explore our services to learn more.