Minimally Invasive Surgery: Redefining What's Possible in Animal Care with Dr. Daniel Spector

In this episode of Ask the Vet, Dr. Ann Hohenhaus is joined by her AMC colleague Dr. Daniel Spector for an informative conversation about minimally invasive surgery in pets. Dr. Spector has led AMC’s minimally invasive surgery program since its launch in 2024, and he brings nearly two decades of experience to the operating room. Together, they discuss:

• His perspective as a pet owner whose dog needed multiple surgeries
• The difference between minimally invasive surgery vs. traditional surgical procedures
• The benefits and suitability of these techniques for both small and large animals
• The types of procedures that can be treated with minimally invasive techniques
• What factors go into deciding whether minimally invasive surgery is the right fit
• How certain procedures can prevent life-threatening diseases
• Why minimally invasive surgery is a key part of AMC’s residency program
• How his interests in cooking, hiking, and running influence his approach to surgery

Also on this month's show:

• Viral trending animal story featuring Bitsy, a stray cat from Alberta, Canada found with six legs.
• Animal news, including the story of an abandoned US postal service truck full of baby birds, how comparative research between humans and dogs is helping both species in the fight against cancer… and wild capuchin monkeys caught on camera carrying baby howler monkeys, a completely different species.
• Pet Health Listener Q&A, where Dr. Hohenhaus answers questions about whether or not to neuter a small toy poodle, the causes of tongue cancer in cats, and how to switch your pet’s diet for better digestive health.

Do you have a pet question for Dr. Hohenhaus? Email [e-mail] to have your question answered on Ask the Vet's Listener Q&A.

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