Good idea on checking the surgeon. Check where they went to school, how many of these they performed, and also check your hospital. There are articles they rate the hospitals. Most in my area are 70%. I hate to say it but when one of the pets gets sick - I wish I could go to their hospital. Also take someone with you on surgery day. EVERY TIME I've had surgery we go over my meds with the nurse and also drug allergies. EVERY TIME they write a RX for something we already told them I couldn't take. They say "sorry" - yea right. Now you understand my disgust with nurses. Good Luck