Equine Oral Surgery Procedures: What to Expect

At Garden State Equine Veterinary Dentistry, we provide surgical tooth extractions every Tuesday at our clinic in Princeton, NJ. Arrival times are typically scheduled for 8:00 AM, 10:00 AM, or 1:00 PM, though specific times may vary based on the number of cases for the day.

Location and Directions

Our clinic is conveniently located on Province Line Road in Princeton, directly across from Bristol Myers Squibb. Look for the sign with our practice logo at the entrance of the driveway. As you proceed down the driveway, follow the “Clinic” signs to reach our facility. While the driveway may appear narrow, it leads to a circular turnaround near the barn that can accommodate large trailers with ease.

Discharge and Wait Time

Most horses are ready to be discharged approximately 4–5 hours after arrival, depending on the complexity of the procedure. While we do not have an on-site waiting area for clients, you’re welcome to disconnect your trailer and leave it on the property while you explore nearby Princeton.

What to Expect on Surgery Day

Arrival

Upon arrival, a team member will greet you or your shipper and help your horse settle into a holding stall. We’ll also be available to answer any questions you have about the procedure.

Pre-Surgical Preparation

Before sedation, we’ll perform a physical exam to ensure your horse is ready for surgery.

The Procedure

After sedation and placement in the stocks, we’ll conduct a thorough oral exam and obtain any necessary radiographs. Once local and regional anesthesia are administered, we’ll perform the dental procedure in our state-of-the-art surgery room.

Preparing for Your Visit

Surgical Consent Form

All owners must complete and sign a Surgical Consent Form. Please email it to us prior to surgery or bring a completed copy with you on the day of the appointment.

Medications

Please inform us if your horse is on any NSAIDs (e.g., Bute, Banamine, Equioxx) and provide the date, time and dosage of last administration.

Vaccinations

We recommend a Tetanus booster if your horse’s last vaccination was more than six months ago. This should be done by your regular veterinarian, as we do not carry vaccines.

Need Trailering Assistance?

If you need a professional shipper to bring your horse to us, here is a list of licensed and insured shippers commonly used by our clients. We do not personally make recommendations, and please keep in mind that Garden State Equine Veterinary Dentistry is not liable for any accidents, illnesses, or injuries related to trailering.

F.C. Whaley Horse Shipping – Fred Whaley
Phone: 908-268-9750 | Email: FCWhaleyIII@gmail.com

Nobody's Business Farm Horse Transportation – Kevin Hennessy
Phone: 610-730-9080 | Email: NBFHorseTrans@aol.com

Tom’s Tack and Saddle, Horse & Livestock Transport – Tom Spain
Phone: 609-227-7863 | Email: TomsTackNJ@gmail.com