Non-Invasive Procedures

Smalll Incisions, Big Benefits:
​​​​​​​Laparoscopic Spays & Gastropexy

At Bishop Ranch Veterinary Center & Urgent Care, we believe every pet deserves access to the most advanced, minimally invasive surgical options for their health and well-being. Dr. Stefanie Wong and Dr. Bari Cappelletti are proud to offer laparoscopic spay procedures for dogs—a cutting-edge technique that reduces pain, speeds recovery, and minimizes tissue trauma compared to traditional surgery.

What is a Canine Laparoscopic Spay?

A laparoscopic spay—also called an ovariectomy—is a minimally invasive procedure that removes the ovaries through one or two small incisions.

How does a Laparoscopic Spay Work?

During the procedure, a small keyhole incision is made. A camera provides a magnified view of the ovarian ligament and blood vessels, allowing for careful cauterization (sealing) and cutting. Unlike a traditional spay, the ovarian ligament does not need to be torn—one of the most painful parts of the surgery. The uterus is not removed, which decreases tension and trauma.

Because of the improved precision and significantly smaller incision, there is typically less bleeding, fewer complications, shorter anesthesia time, and a recovery period that is about half the time of a traditional spay.

These advantages make laparoscopic spays a safer, more comfortable, and faster-healing option for your dog.

Benefits of a Laparoscopic Spay

Compared to a traditional spay, a laparoscopic spay offers many advantages that improve your dog’s comfort and recovery:

Key Advantages:

• Smaller incisions – fewer stitches and less tissue disruption

• Less pain – reduced discomfort during healing

• Quicker recovery – most dogs return to normal activity in about 7 days (versus 14 with a traditional spay)

• Minimal shaving compared to a traditional spay

• Less trauma, bleeding, and bruising
  
  

Additional Surgical Benefits:

• Better visibility for the surgeon – magnified cameras improve precision and reduce complications

• Safer vessel sealing – specialized devices seal blood vessels before cutting, minimizing bleeding risks

• Gentler technique – the ovarian ligament is carefully cut and cauterized rather than torn

• Less invasive approach – only the ovaries are removed (ovariectomy), which has all the same benefits as a full spay but with less surgical trauma

• Faster anesthesia recovery – your dog can wake up and return home sooner

What is a Canine Gastropexy by Laparoscopy?

A laparoscopic gastropexy is a preventive surgical procedure that helps protect large and deep-chested dogs from a life-threatening condition called gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), or “bloat.” In GDV, the stomach twists on itself, cutting off blood supply and trapping gas—an emergency that requires immediate surgery.

During a laparoscopic gastropexy, the surgeon uses small incisions, a camera, and specialized instruments to secure the stomach wall to the inside of the abdomen. This prevents the stomach from twisting in the future, dramatically reducing the risk of GDV.

This procedure is often performed at the same time as a spay or neuter for at-risk breeds, including:

• Great Danes
• ​​​​​​​German Shepherds
• Labrador Retrievers
• ​​​​​​​Doodles
• Weimaraners
• Standard Poodles
• Mastiffs
• Other large or giant breeds

By combining gastropexy with other procedures, your dog can have a safer, minimally invasive surgery with a faster recovery while reducing the risk of a life-threatening emergency in the future.

A 2005 study published in the Journal of the Veterinary Medical Association found that laparoscopic spays for dogs caused less surgical stress and up to 65% less post-operative pain compared to traditional “open” spays.

For large or deep-chested breeds, a laparoscopic gastropexy can be performed during a lap spay to prevent life-threatening gastric torsion (bloat).

The use of laparoscopic procedures in veterinary medicine is growing rapidly. At Bishop Ranch Veterinary Center, we also offer:

• Laparoscopic liver biopsies – the preferred method for obtaining high-quality liver samples

• Cryptorchid (intra-abdominal) neuters – performed laparoscopically for a minimally invasive approach

Is Your Dog a Good Candidate for a Laparoscopic Spay?

In general, laparoscopic procedures are recommended for dogs who meet the following criteria:

• Age: between 6 months and 4 years

• Weight: typically 15–20 pounds or more (though exceptions may be made)
  
  

Because the instruments are introduced through small portals and the abdomen is inflated with CO₂ to create working space, very small dogs can present challenges for this technique. Your veterinarian will evaluate your dog to determine if a laparoscopic approach is appropriate.

Cost of Laparoscopic Procedures

​​​​​​​The cost of a laparoscopic procedure depends on your dog’s age, weight, and the specific procedure being performed. Because laparoscopic surgery uses specialized equipment and techniques, it typically costs 30–40% more than a traditional “open” spay or neuter.

Special Offer:

Schedule your dog’s procedure before 12/31/2025 and mention this webpage to receive $150 off either a Laparoscopic Gastropexy or Laparoscopic Spay Procedure.

How to Schedule Your Dog for a Laparoscopic Procedure