Article Release: Issue 27
Release Date: June 11, 2025
Written By:  Karla Hojas, Marketing Director, and Dr. Tomas Infernuso, DVM, DACVS

At Animal Surgical Center, we often receive questions from both pet parents and referring veterinarians about what it’s really like behind the scenes at our specialty surgical hospital. What does a veterinary surgeon’s day actually entail? What types of cases do they see? And what goes into planning, performing, and recovering from surgery?

To give you a deeper look into this world, I sat down with Dr. Tomas Infernuso, Board-Certified Veterinary Surgeon and Founder of ASC, to walk through a typical day—from morning rounds to the operating room, post-op care, and beyond. Whether you’re a fellow veterinarian or a devoted pet owner navigating your animal’s surgical journey, this behind-the-scrubs glimpse offers insight into the expertise, compassion, and teamwork it takes to deliver specialty veterinary care.

A Day at ASC: For Pet Owners

My Morning Routine at ASC
Each morning, I walk through the doors of Animal Surgical Center with a clear purpose: today, a life will be saved. Our patients arrive with powerful stories of resilience, and it’s my honor to stand by their side. One of the most rewarding moments is checking in on those who underwent surgery the day before—watching their recovery take shape reminds me of the effort, skill, and heart my team puts into each case. Recheck appointments bring a unique kind of joy—tails wagging, eyes bright, and pet parents full of gratitude and relief.

Surgery Preparation: The Mindset Behind the Medicine
Every procedure I perform begins with a mental shift—one of complete focus and determination. Whether it’s removing a tumor, repairing a torn ligament, or stabilizing a complex fracture, I approach each surgery with the mindset of a champion. Surgery isn’t just about technical skill—it’s a mission. And each case is a chance to push the boundaries of what’s possible in modern veterinary medicine.

Most Common Surgeries—and Unforgettable Cases
Orthopedic procedures make up the majority of my caseload—about 60%—including fracture repairs and joint stabilizations like TPLO surgeries. Neurologic cases such as spinal surgeries make up roughly 20%, with soft tissue surgeries (like tumor removals) rounding out the rest. While every case matters, some outcomes truly leave a lasting impression—like watching a dog walk again after being paralyzed. That’s the magic of this field.

What Pet Owners Don’t Always See
Behind the scenes, surgery involves hours of preparation. From aligning surgical steps to checking every instrument and contingency plan, it’s the details that make the difference. These are the moments pet owners don’t always see—but they are vital to the success of every operation.

The Critical Role of Recovery
Surgical recovery is just as important as the surgery itself. Pain management, wound care, and rehabilitation are essential pillars of healing. I personally follow up with each patient post-op to monitor comfort, mobility, and healing progress. Follow-up visits aren’t just check-ins—they’re celebrations of your pet’s strength and our shared progress.

The Best Part of My Day
The greatest reward comes when a patient walks out of ASC stronger and ready for a new chapter. That joy is multiplied by the teamwork that gets us there—our collective effort, united by a mission to deliver advanced surgical care at a fair price, is what makes this work meaningful.

 

Insights for Our Referring Veterinary Partners

What I Value in Our Partnerships
Collaboration is the heart of our relationship with referring veterinarians. Whether it’s a second opinion or a surgical referral, our partnership allows us to approach each case with unity and clarity, ensuring the best possible outcome for the pet.

What I Wish Every GP Knew
Specialty hospitals like ASC aren’t here to compete—we’re here to complement. We share your commitment to the patient and want to be a trusted extension of your practice. Together, we can raise the standard of care.

How GPs Can Support Post-Surgical Recovery
The best results come from seamless communication. When general practice teams and specialists work in tandem, we can spot concerns early and adjust care accordingly. Staying connected helps ensure a smooth and safe recovery journey.

Preparing for a Successful Referral
Don’t wait—reach out. Early consultation and open dialogue can help set realistic expectations for the pet owner and allow us to prepare for the patient’s arrival. It’s the first step toward a confident, informed surgical plan.

Final Thoughts

Every day at ASC is an opportunity to change lives. From the early morning patient rounds to life-saving surgeries and the long hours of recovery care, our goal is simple: to help pets live longer, healthier, and happier lives. Whether you’re a pet owner trusting us with your beloved companion or a fellow veterinary professional referring a complex case, we thank you for your trust and partnership.

If you’d like to refer a case, have questions about a patient, or want to learn more about our surgical services, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here for you—every step of the way.

With Compassion & Care,
The ASC Team
Animal Surgical Center