Request Appointment (949) 354-5201 Pet Surgery in Lake Forest, CA Surgical Procedures performed with care and expertise. A happy dog with a black and white coat runs through a sunlit forest filled with fallen autumn leaves, with rays of sunlight streaming through the trees.

Veterinary Surgery Services in Lake Forest, CA

At Bliss Animal Hospital, we provide expert pet surgery services to address a variety of medical conditions. From routine procedures to soft tissue surgeries, our experienced veterinary team ensures the highest standard of care for your pet. With a focus on patient safety, pain management, and a smooth recovery, we guide pet owners through every step—from pre-surgical evaluations to post-operative care. Our state-of-the-art surgical suite is equipped with modern technology to deliver precise, effective, and safe veterinary surgery for dogs and cats in Lake Forest, CA, and surrounding areas.

A medical professional in surgical attire, including a colorful cap with animal prints, focuses on a patient covered with a blue drape. Medical equipment is visible in the background, indicating an operating room setting.

List of Surgeries

This surgical procedure involves the precise extraction of foreign objects from your pet’s digestive tract. It is crucial for preventing obstructions that can lead to severe digestive issues, pain, and even life-threatening conditions. For more information about Foreign Body Removal Surgery read our blog.

Mass removal surgery focuses on the safe and effective extraction of growths, tumors, or lumps from your pet’s body. Early removal is essential to prevent malignancy and potential complications.

Spaying (ovariohysterectomy) and neutering (orchiectomy) surgeries involve the removal of reproductive organs. These routine procedures play a critical role in controlling pet populations, reducing the risk of reproductive diseases, and promoting responsible pet ownership. For more information about Spay and Neuter Surgeries read our blog.
This surgical intervention aims to remove bladder stones, relieving discomfort and preventing urinary tract issues that can cause pain and discomfort to your pet. For more information about Bladder Stone Removal Surgery read our blog.

Dog intestinal blockage surgery is a life-saving procedure that removes obstructions preventing digestion. It’s crucial because untreated blockages can cause severe complications like infection, tissue death, and organ failure, requiring immediate veterinary intervention. For more information about Dog Intestinal Blockage Surgery read our blog.

Pyometra is a life-threatening infection in unspayed female dogs requiring emergency surgery. Learn signs, treatment, and recovery steps in our blog Pyometra Surgery in Dogs.
Anal sacculectomy removes one or both anal glands to resolve chronic infections, abscesses, or painful blockages. This procedure helps prevent recurring issues and improves long-term comfort. For more information, read our blog on Anal Gland Removal Surgery for Dogs.

Surgical removal of skin growths or tumors is crucial to prevent malignancy and the potential spread of cancer. Early intervention is essential for the best possible outcome.

Preventive gastropexy is a preventive surgery that secures the stomach to the abdominal wall. It is especially important in certain dog breeds to reduce the risk of gastric torsion (bloat), a life-threatening condition. For more information, read our blog on Preventive Gastropexy Surgery.
Cystotomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of bladder stones or treatment of bladder issues, alleviating discomfort and preventing urinary tract infections. For more information about Cystotomy read our blog.

Surgical repair of deep skin lacerations is essential for promoting proper healing, preventing infection, and ensuring the best possible recovery for your pet.

Cherry eye is a condition where the third eyelid gland prolapses, causing irritation and discomfort. Surgical correction is necessary to reposition the gland, prevent chronic dry eye, and maintain your pet’s eye health. For more information about Cherry Eye Surgery read our blog.
Ear hematomas occur when blood pools between the layers of the ear flap due to trauma or excessive scratching. Surgical intervention helps drain the fluid, prevent recurrence, and restore the ear’s normal shape and function. For more information about Dog Ear Hematoma Surgery read our blog.
Enucleation is the surgical removal of a dog’s eye due to trauma, infection, glaucoma, or cancer. While the decision can be emotional, the surgery is often necessary to relieve pain and improve quality of life. Most dogs adapt well and live happy lives with one eye. For more information, read our blog on Dog Eye Removal Surgery.
Surgical removal of tumors or masses helps eliminate abnormal growths that may affect your pet’s health, mobility, or comfort. Whether the lump is benign or potentially cancerous, early intervention through surgery can be critical to prevent complications and support long-term wellness. For more information, read our blog on Mass/Tumor Removal Surgery.

Modern and Safe Surgical Suite

At Bliss Animal Hospital, we are committed to providing modern, safe, and effective surgical care for your pet. We understand that the thought of surgery can be overwhelming, which is why we focus on transparency, technology, and compassionate care throughout the entire process.

Our surgical suite is designed to meet the highest standards in veterinary medicine. Equipped with surgical instruments, anesthesia delivery systems, and monitoring technology, we ensure the safest possible environment for every procedure. From routine spays and neuters to soft tissue surgeries, our trained veterinarians utilize the safest techniques to achieve reliable outcomes.
Every pet is unique, which is why we tailor anesthesia plans based on preoperative assessments that evaluate organ function, underlying health conditions, and individual risk factors. During surgery, our modern monitoring equipment continuously tracks heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen levels, temperature, and respiratory function. This real-time data allows our experienced surgical team to make immediate adjustments and provide rapid intervention if needed, ensuring your pet’s safety at every stage.
Recovery begins the moment surgery ends. We prioritize pain management by using multimodal analgesia, combining local anesthetics, anti-inflammatory medications, and post-operative pain relief to keep your pet as comfortable as possible. Our team provides detailed aftercare instructions and ongoing support to help your pet recover smoothly at home.

At Bliss Animal Hospital, we take every precaution to minimize risks, maximize comfort, and provide expert surgical care that pet owners can trust. Your pet’s health is our top priority, and we are dedicated to ensuring a safe, stress-free, and successful surgical experience.

Reception Area In-house ultrasound technology enhances surgical precision by guiding exploration of the abdominal cavity in real time. Reception Area Our surgical suite prioritizes patient safety with advanced anesthesia monitoring, sterile equipment, and expert care. Reception Area State-of-the-art digital radiology ensures precise, efficient X-ray diagnostics for your pet’s surgical and medical needs. Reception Area Thorough dog dental cleaning helps prevent diseases and improves oral health for a healthier pet. A sterile veterinary surgery room with an operating table, overhead surgical lights, and medical equipment. Shelves with supplies are visible through a glass partition. Various cables and anesthesia machines are placed nearby. The image shows a veterinary X-ray room with an InnoVet X-ray machine, an adjustable table, a wall-mounted control panel, and a computer station. Charts with anatomical illustrations are visible on the wall. The room has light gray walls and flooring. Two veterinary professionals perform an ultrasound exam on a sedated cat lying on a blanket-covered table, with medical equipment and a monitor displaying an image in a dimly lit exam room.

Preparing for Surgery

Preparing your pet for surgery is a critical step in ensuring a smooth procedure and a successful recovery. Proper preparation minimizes risks associated with anesthesia and surgery while helping your pet feel more comfortable throughout the process. Our experienced veterinary team is here to guide you through each step, making sure you feel informed and confident about your pet’s upcoming procedure.

Before scheduling surgery, your veterinarian will conduct a thorough health evaluation to ensure your pet is a suitable candidate for the procedure. This typically includes a physical examination and diagnostic tests, such as:

  • Blood Work: Helps assess organ function, detect infections, and ensure your pet can handle anesthesia.
  • Urinalysis: Screens for underlying kidney or metabolic conditions.
  • Imaging (X-rays or Ultrasound): May be necessary to evaluate internal structures and plan the surgery accordingly.
These tests help us tailor the anesthesia and surgical plan to your pet’s individual needs, ensuring the safest possible procedure.

Fasting is a crucial pre-surgical step to prevent complications such as aspiration pneumonia, which occurs when stomach contents are accidentally inhaled into the lungs.
  • For most pets, food should be withheld for 8-12 hours before surgery. Follow our veterinarian instructions.
  • Water may be restricted a few hours before the procedure.
  • Puppies, kittens, and diabetic pets may have different fasting requirements, so always follow your vet’s specific instructions.
It’s important to follow fasting instructions precisely, as failure to do so could delay or cancel the surgery for safety reasons.
If your pet is on any medications or supplements, inform your veterinarian as some may need to be temporarily discontinued before surgery. For example, certain anti-inflammatory drugs, blood thinners, or herbal supplements could increase surgical risks. Our team will provide clear guidance on which medications should be paused and which should continue.
On the day of the procedure:
  • Arrive on time to allow for pre-surgical preparations.
  • Ensure your pet has had a bathroom break before heading to the clinic.
  • Transport safely: Use a secure carrier for small pets and a leash for dogs.
  • Bring comfort items: A favorite blanket or toy can help soothe nervous pets.

What to Expect: Surgery

Learn more about surgery here at Bliss Animal Hospital.

Supporting Your Pet After Surgery

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Flexible Payment Options

We aim to make our surgical services accessible and convenient for all pet owners. We accept a variety of payment methods to accommodate your needs:

  • Cash and Checks: We welcome payments made in cash or by check.
  • Debit and Credit Cards: We accept major credit cards, including Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express.
  • Pet Insurance: We work with various pet insurance providers to help manage the cost of surgical procedures. Please consult with your insurance company to understand the coverage details.
  • Financing Options: We offer financing options such as CareCredit. Our team can provide more information and assist you in finding a plan that suits your budget.

If you have any questions about our payment options, please don’t hesitate to contact our office.

Meet Our Veterinarians

The blissful faces behind the care

Driven by compassion and purpose, here is the team who will work to make a difference in your pet’s life. Every single visit.

dr Nayara pataro dr nai Veterinarian Bliss animal hospital vet near me

Dr. Nayara Pataro

Veterinarian

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dr sam amirshahi vet dr sam veterinarian bliss animal hospital vet near me

Dr. Sam Amirshahi

Veterinarian

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What your neighbors are saying!

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Brian Yamada profile picture
Brian Yamada
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Compassionate, friendly, professional, and knowledgeable staff. I hope we found our new vet for our fur babies!
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Angela Thomas profile picture
Angela Thomas
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My dog got great care and we didn’t feel oversold a bunch of tests and other problems that needed to be solved for.
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Dana Groff
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Dr. Sam is so calming, gentle, loving, and professional to my sweet Maizie! I know he treats her like his own puppy and thinks about her future health!
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Cynthia Der Matoian
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Very knowledgeable & friendly staff across the board! We appreciate the next day follow-up phone call to check on how our pet was doing. Easy and fast scheduling and check -out. Well ran veterinary hospital, we will return when needed.
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Keith Pickard
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You couldn't find any better care, highly recommend them.
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Brian profile picture
Brian
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Amazing Vet and staff. Have been with Dr Sam since he first started and they have card for our dogs for over 15 years. Their love and compassion for animals are by far the best. The facilities are amazing and have almost everything on-site, including Xray and surgerical area.
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Allyson Chance
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I can’t say enough about the staff at Bliss Animal Hospital! They are all so kind and caring. They go the extra mile and never make me feel like I’m asking too many questions. I never feel like they are trying upsell me things/services I don’t need. I trust them with my babies (dogs).
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Melody garrison
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Best veterinary office around. You can tell they all truly care about our pets.
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Jacques P.
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We went to Bliss for the first time a couple of days ago. It was for a check up for our yellow lab Gracie. We found the staff to be excellent in every way. They were attentive and very caring. Gracie gets nervous going to the vet but not so here. The vet and staff took the time to make her feel comfortable. By the end of the visit she was licking their faces. The vet answered all our questions and was very patient. After our visit she sent us a detailed email letting us know what was needed to improve her diet. This was exceptional care. We will be back for sure
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Simona V.
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I can't recommend Bliss Animal Hospital enough, especially Dr. Nayara and the incredible team. My sphynx cat, Dobby, developed an anal gland abscess, and before goiing to Bliss, I took him to two other veterinary hospitals. Both recommended surgery under anesthesia. The problem is that Dobby has a heart condition and von Willebrand disease, so his specialists do not recommend anesthesia unless it is absolutely necessary because of the risks involved. At the other hospitals, I felt completely hopeless. I was essentially being told that if he had surgery there were significant risks because of his medical conditions, but if he didn't have surgery there were also risks if the abscess worsened or ruptured. Basically they said that this will not resolve on its own without surgical intervention and being put under anesthesia. As his mom, I felt like there was no good option and I was terrified of making the wrong decision. When I brought Dobby to Bliss Animal Hospital, everything changed. Dr. Nay took the time to carefully evaluate him instead of immediately recommending surgery. She was able to express more of the abscess, gave him a long-acting antibiotic injection, and even contacted Dobby's cardiologist to make sure the pain medication she wanted to prescribe would be safe for his heart. That level of thoroughness and teamwork meant everything to me. Because Dobby was having leakage from the abscess, he developed a severe skin burn around his rear end that looked incredibly painful. Dr. Nay recommended medical-grade Manuka honey, and it honestly worked like magic. The area healed so quickly, and it brought him so much relief. The results were incredible. The swelling continued to go down, the abscess completely resolved, and Dobby healed without needing surgery. I am beyond grateful that Dr. Nay looked at Dobby as an individual instead of taking a one-size-fits-all approach. I also want to give a special thank you to Wilma. She was so kind and compassionate with Dobby and treated him with so much love. When I needed medication for him right away, she went out of her way to help me get it as quickly as possible. That level of kindness is something I'll never forget. I'm a total mama bear when it comes to my boys, and I know I ask a million questions because I want the very best for them. Not once did anyone at Bliss Animal Hospital make me feel like I was being difficult. Every single person was patient, understanding, and genuinely cared about Dobby as if he were their own. Thank you, Dr. Nay, Wilma, and the entire team at Bliss Animal Hospital. You didn't just treat Dobby, you treated him with extraordinary compassion, respected his unique medical needs, and gave me hope when I truly felt like there wasn't any. I will always be grateful for the care you gave my sweet boy.
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Shelley H.
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Absolutely love Bliss! We continue to have the best care. The doctors are caring and the staff is top notch! I can call with questions.. and I do that a lot.. and they always answer my questions and get back to me in a timely manner. I also love the app and I can also message on that. We are so glad that we found Bliss!
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Stacy C.
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The staff and Dr. Sam were absolutely amazing. I booked the wrong place for an appointment and showed up at their office an hour before they even open and Dr. Sam took Dozer and I in and helped us anyway. The staff was incredibly helpful with getting Dozers prior vet information. And helped us when Dozer wasn't feeling well they immediately had us come in and took a look at him and referred us to a great emergency vet. Unfortunately Dozer didn't make it, his cancer and bleed was to much, and even with as sad and heartbreaking it all is and was, the staff at Bliss were so helpful and supportive. I recommend anyone who has a dog or cat to take them to Bliss, you will feel very supported and well taken care of.
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Scott T.
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I love the honest, family feeling I received. Which is why you're Moe's new veterinarian!!!
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Bill M.
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If you are.looking for a vet this is the place for your pet. Excellent knowledgeable and friendly. I highly recommend them.
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Christopher S. profile picture
Christopher S.
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Bliss, its doctors and staff are amazing! we had to get our little dog spayed and it went perfectly. she acted like she didn't even know she had a procedure. staff was so helpful and caring! The doctor did an excellent proc where Zoe was back to her normal self within 1 day (With all the care and precautions the staff advised us to do!)! Always a pleasant experience there! We highly recommend this office!
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Melody G.
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Bliss Animal Hospital is the best! everyone who works there is kind and caring and we can feel the love they have for each pet.
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Kristin C.
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Dr. Sam and staff at Bliss Animal Hospital are always so kind, helpful and show so much care to my pup! I appreciate how much time Dr. Sam spends examining my pet and answering my questions. Bliss truly makes going to the vet a wonderful and calm experience! Appreciate you all!!

Areas we Serve at Bliss Animal Hospital:

Better Care. Better medicine.” This is our motto, and our veterinary staff stands behind it.

Bliss Animal Hospital is conveniently located at the Home Depot Plaza in Foothill Ranch, less than a 10-minute drive from the neighborhoods of Lake Forest, Rancho Santa Margarita, Mission Viejo, and Irvine (Great Park and Portola Springs). We also serve more distant regions like Tustin, Coto de Caza, Las Flores, Ladera Ranch, Laguna Hills, Laguna Woods, Stonegate (Irvine), Woodbury (Irvine), and Cypress Village (Irvine).

Our vet hospital is ready to serve not only the communities of South Orange County but also anyone who truly believes that veterinary medicine starts with relationships.