Regardless of whether it is a cruciate ligament rupture, tumors or a twisted stomach: four-digit veterinary bills are generated quickly for dogs. In the event of accidents and complicated emergency operations, the financial outlay, including follow-up care and therapy, can even amount to 10,000 euros and more. In order to protect themselves against sums that threaten their existence, dog owners are well advised to take out surgery insurance.

1. Operation on tumors

Tumors are very common in dogs, and removal is considered the number one cause of surgery. The majority of those affected suffer from skin tumors. 20-30 percent of all dog skin tumors are malignant. In order to be able to heal the animals, early action is essential. Therefore, dog owners should regularly check the skin of their protégés. Tumors are also often detectable on the teats and the edge of the eyelids.

Costs: Around 400 euros must be expected for a tumor operation. In severe cases, however, the costs easily exceed the 1,000 euro mark.

2. Tooth extraction surgery

Pulling a tooth is also one of the typical operations on dogs. Tooth extraction can be caused by inflammation of the root canal, damaged tooth roots or milk teeth that do not fall out. Regular feeding of special chewing items for dental care or manual cleaning of the teeth serve as a preventive measure. When choosing dental care treats, make sure that they do not contain any sugar. Although this should go without saying, items containing sugar are commercially available.

Costs: At least 200 euros are incurred for a tooth extraction.

3. Operation for cruciate ligament rupture and joint operations

If a dog is in severe pain and is paralyzed, there is a good chance that the cruciate ligament has ruptured. In older dogs, the tendon in the knee tears more often because the osteoarthritis increases the risk of tears. But also young animals can get a cruciate ligament rupture while running wild or a stupid movement while running. After the examination, the veterinarian decides whether an operation actually has to be carried out. In some cases there is only a tear in the tendon, which can be healed by severely restricting the patient’s freedom of movement.

Costs: Costs from 1,500 euros are common for an operation. An operation on the joints may be necessary due to hip bone or elbow dysplasia and costs from 1,000 euros.

4. Abdominal cavity surgery in dogs

The twisting of the stomach is every dog ​​owner’s nightmare. After all, it is an acute emergency that can be fatal if a veterinarian does not intervene in time. Emergency surgery is usually the only way to save. To prevent stomach torsion, dogs must always rest after eating.

Costs: The procedure for a stomach rotation can cost 1,200 euros and more.

The last feeding should take place as early as possible in the evening so that the dangerous gastric torsion does not occur at night when the owners are sleeping and the complaints of their four-legged friend go unnoticed. Veterinary assistant Stefanie Essing explains in the video how a torsion in the stomach can be recognized:

5. Surgery for amputations and broken bones

Broken bones tend to occur in traffic accidents, but amputation can also result if limbs have been seriously injured. At the same time, illness or unfortunate events while playing with other dogs can cause fractures and amputations.

Costs: The treatment costs for fractures and amputations start in many places between 600 and 1,500 euros.

Surgery insurance – this is what dog owners should know

As the name suggests, surgery insurance only pays out for operations. Vaccinations or similar veterinary services are not covered by the insurance. Castration and sterilization are also not covered by the operating theater insurance. Pre-existing illnesses that could lead to a later operation are also excluded from the insurance cover. Before you take out surgery insurance for your dog, you should compare different insurance providers and pay attention to the following questions:

• What is the maximum benefit limit?
• Which rate of the fee schedule is used for reimbursement?
• Will follow-up treatment including hospital stay, medication and bandages be covered?
• Is there a deductible?
• Is there a waiting period?
• Is there insurance coverage abroad?
• What does the insurance cost per month?
• Are there any maximum age limits?

Some insurers require a preliminary examination. This is also a contractual element that needs to be checked.

Surgery for dogs can be very expensive. © rodimovpavel-stock.adobe.com