Surgery Centers
University of Florida Small Animal Hospital Information
About UF Small Animal Hospital
2089 SW 16th Avenue
Gainesville, FL 32608
TEL: (352) 392-2235
Hours 8AM-5:00PM
E-mail: smallanimal@ufl.edu
Website: https://smallanimal.vethospital.ufl.edu/
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Located in Gainesville, Florida USA
The University of Florida Small Animal Hospital is a leading veterinary teaching hospital located on the University of Florida’s main campus in Gainesville, Florida.
Established in 1979, it serves as a world-class medical and surgical care facility for companion animals, including dogs, cats, birds, exotic pets, and wildlife.
The hospital treats tens of thousands of patients each year from across Florida and the Southeast and is part of the UF College of Veterinary Medicine, combining advanced patient care with veterinary education.
The hospital is equipped with advanced diagnostic imaging, modern surgical suites, intensive care units, and state-of-the-art medical technology, allowing clinicians to diagnose and manage complex medical and surgical conditions.
As an American Animal Hospital Association–accredited facility, it meets rigorous standards for patient care, safety, pain management, and clinical protocols, reflecting its commitment to excellence in veterinary medicine.
In addition to general and specialty care, the UF Small Animal Hospital offers a wide range of specialty services staffed by board-certified specialists, residents, interns, and skilled veterinary technicians.
These specialties include cardiology, internal medicine, oncology, neurology, emergency and critical care, dermatology, ophthalmology, and integrative medicine.
The hospital’s emergency and critical care service operates around the clock and is recognized for providing the highest level of emergency veterinary care.
As an academic teaching hospital, the UF Small Animal Hospital plays a vital role in advancing veterinary medicine through education and clinical research.
Veterinary students and trainees gain hands-on experience under expert supervision, while clinical studies help improve diagnostics, treatments, and outcomes for future patients.
Compassionate, patient-centered care and collaboration with pet owners and referring veterinarians remain central to the hospital’s mission.
Dr. Katsuhiro Matsuura
About Dr. Katsuhiro Matsuura, D.V.M., Ph.D.
Dr. Katsuhiro Matsuura, D.V.M., Ph.D. is a distinguished veterinary clinician and researcher known for his expertise in advanced cardiac care and translational veterinary medicine.
With a strong foundation in both clinical practice and scientific research, Dr. Matsuura bridges evidence-based medicine with hands-on patient care, focusing on improving outcomes for animals with complex cardiovascular conditions.
Holding both a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine and a Ph.D., Dr. Matsuura has dedicated his career to advancing the understanding and treatment of heart disease in companion animals.
His work emphasizes precision diagnostics, innovative surgical and interventional techniques, and the application of cutting-edge research to real-world clinical settings.
He is particularly recognized for his contributions to the evolving field of veterinary cardiology and the mitral valve repair surgery under bypass.
In addition to his clinical work, Dr. Matsuura is actively involved in academic medicine, where he contributes to research, mentorship, and professional education.
Through collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, he helps train the next generation of veterinarians while continuing to push the boundaries of what is possible in veterinary cardiac care. His commitment to excellence, compassion for patients, and dedication to scientific advancement make him a respected leader in the field.
University of Florida Mitral Valve Repair Program
University of Florida Mitral Valve Repair Surgery Overview
The University of Florida Small Animal Hospital in Gainesville, FL, is the only veterinary center in the United States offering open-heart mitral valve repair surgery, an advanced surgical option for dogs suffering from degenerative mitral valve disease (MVD), the most common heart disease in dogs.
Mitral valve disease eventually causes the heart’s mitral valve to leak (called mitral regurgitation), which can lead to congestive heart failure, coughing, difficulty breathing, and fatigue. While many dogs are managed medically, surgical repair directly addresses the valve defect and can significantly improve quality of life and survival.
What Makes The UF Mitral Valve Repair Program Unique
This open-heart surgery program is unique because it brings mitral valve repair surgery to the U.S., so owners no longer need to travel overseas for this complex treatment. The operation requires cardiopulmonary bypass and a highly coordinated team of specialists.
In its first year (as of April 2023), UF’s program performed over 40 surgeries with positive success rates based on internal reporting. Dogs are often able to reduce or even discontinue heart medications after successful repair.
Important Program Links
Meet the UF Team
Dr. Katsuhiro Matsuura
Dr. Darcy Adin
Dr. Margaret Chu
Dr. Hideki Yotsuida
To help guide you through the process, please use our step-by-step instruction guide on the University of Florida Mitral Valve Repair application process.
STEP 1: Referring Veterinarian Consultation Request
Your dog must first have a mitral valve surgery consult request submitted by a referring veterinarian. This includes echocardiogram results from a board-certified cardiologist and other key tests.
STEP 2: Review & Eligibility
The UF team reviews all records to determine if your dog is a surgical candidate. Not all dogs with mitral valve disease are eligible – typically only those at advanced stages (ACVIM C, D, and advanced B2) are considered. Dogs that are in stage B1 are not considered candidates for surgery which applies to eligibility in University of Florida, RVC UK, and Jasmine.
STEP 3: Owner & Team Meeting
Once eligible, you’ll meet with the UF surgical team to discuss risks, logistics, surgical details, and follow-up planning.
STEP 4: Surgery Scheduling
A surgery date is set and a deposit is taken to secure the slot. Due to high demand, wait times can be significant – sometimes up to a year from the consultation submission.
Step 5: Preparing for Surgery
Before surgery, your dog must undergo comprehensive pre-operative testing to assess overall health and surgical risk.
This typically includes:
- Abdominal ultrasound
- Blood pressure and bloodwork
- Complete blood count and chemistry
- Coagulation profile
- Echocardiogram by a boarded cardiologist
- Chest X-rays and ECG
- Urinalysis (All required within 2–6 months before surgery.)
These tests can be done at UF or at a specialty veterinary facility near you, then submitted for review.
Step 6: Surgery & Hospital Stay
Open-heart mitral valve repair is a complex, multi-hour procedure that involves placing your dog on cardiopulmonary bypass to allow the heart to be stopped while the surgeon repairs the valve and supporting structures. Recovery requires about one week of ICU hospitalization after surgery, with close monitoring and specialized care.
Post-Operative Care & Follow-Up
After discharge, follow-up appointments are critical and occur at scheduled intervals:
- 2-week post-op check
- 1, 2, 3, 6, and 12-month evaluations
(These follow-ups may be done at UF or with your local cardiologist)
Most dogs gradually return to normal activity, and many are able to decrease or stop cardiac medications over time.
Eligibility Considerations
Dogs that may not be eligible for this surgery include:
- Dogs with early (Stage B1) disease
- Dogs over ~14 years old
- Dogs with significant systemic illnesses (like liver or kidney disease)
Did you know: The University of Florida’s mitral valve repair program for dogs launched in late April 2023 at the UF Small Animal Hospital, becoming the first dedicated open heart surgery program of its kind in the United States to offer surgical repair for degenerative mitral valve disease in dogs.
The cost for mitral valve repair surgery is estimated between $45,000 and $52,000, which covers surgery and hospitalization. Follow-up diagnostics and care are additional.
This estimate does not include traveling expenses, external tests done before submission, or extended post-hospital care.
While surgery costs are typically higher at University of Florida compared to RVC UK and Jasmine in Japan, patients with medical insurance (example: Trupanion, Pets Best) are accepted, making the final surgery costs considerably less with insurance coverage.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is mitral valve disease (MVD)?
MVD is a degenerative condition where the heart’s mitral valve degenerates and leaks blood backward, causing the heart to work harder and eventually leading to congestive heart failure if severe.
How is surgery different from medical treatment?
Medical therapy helps manage symptoms and slow progression, but open-heart mitral valve repair addresses the underlying valve defect and can significantly improve long-term outcomes.
How long does surgery take?
The procedure — including bypass and repair — typically lasts several hours, and dogs remain in the hospital for about a week afterward for monitoring and recovery.
UF Small Animal Hospital’s address:
2089 SW 16th Ave., Gainesville, FL 32608
Travel Planning for the University of Florida Mitral Valve Repair Surgery
Traveling with a dog for mitral valve repair surgery can feel overwhelming especially when flying. This guide is designed to help pet parents plan a smooth, low-stress trip to Gainesville, Florida, home of the University of Florida Small Animal Hospital.
Flying Nationally with Your Dog to Gainesville, Florida
Most pet parents traveling to UF will arrive by air. Gainesville is accessible via several nearby airports, with both direct and connecting flight options available depending on your departure city.
Closest & Most Common Airports
Gainesville Regional Airport (GNV)
• Closest airport to UF (approximately 10–15 minutes by car)
• Limited direct flights; most travelers connect through larger hubs
Jacksonville International Airport (JAX)
• About 1.5–2 hours from Gainesville by car
• More nonstop and airline options
Orlando International Airport (MCO)
• About 2 hours from Gainesville
• Ideal for travelers needing the widest selection of airlines and schedules
Tampa International Airport (TPA)
• About 2–2.5 hours from Gainesville
• Another strong option for nonstop routes
Ground Transportation Options
Once you arrive in Florida, several transportation options are available.
Rideshare & Taxi Services
- Uber & Lyft operate at all major airports listed above
- Availability in Gainesville is generally reliable
- You can request pet-friendly rides, but availability may vary
Car Rentals
- Renting a car is often the most flexible and least stressful option, especially for dogs recovering from travel
- All major rental car companies operate at GNV, JAX, MCO, and TPA
Shuttle Services
- Limited direct shuttle services to Gainesville
- Typically not recommended for dogs post-flight due to longer travel times
Flying with Dogs: What to Expect
Most dogs traveling for mitral valve repair fly in-cabin when under airline size limits. Cargo travel is generally discouraged for heart patients. Always consult with your dog’s cardiologist before flying to ensure that your pet is healthy enough to travel by plane.
Your veterinarian may prescribe medications like Trazadone to help your dog stay calm during the flight. In some cases, CBD supplements may also reduce stress during travel.
In-Cabin Travel Tips
- Use an airline-approved soft-sided carrier
- Schedule flights during cooler parts of the day
- Avoid long layovers when possible
- Speak with your cardiologist or surgical team before booking
Service Animals vs. Pets: Required Paperwork
If your dog is flying as a service animal, airlines require specific documentation.
DOT Service Animal Forms (Required)
- U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Service Animal Air Transportation Form
- Confirms the dog’s health, behavior, and training
- Must be submitted to the airline (often 48 hours before departure)
Some airlines may also request:
• Veterinary health certificate (especially for longer trips)
• Proof of vaccinations (rabies recommended)
⚠️ Emotional support animals are no longer recognized as service animals by most U.S. airlines.
If your dog is flying as a pet, requirements vary by airline but usually include:
• Pet fee (each direction)
• Carrier size compliance
• Advance reservation due to limited in-cabin pet slots
Most Dog-Friendly Airlines (U.S.)
While policies change, these airlines are commonly considered among the most pet-friendly for in-cabin travel:
- United Airlines – generous pet policies and good cabin space
- Southwest Airlines – simple booking process and transparent pet fee
- American Airlines – broad national route coverage
- Delta Air Lines – strong reliability and customer support
Always review airline-specific pet policies before booking.
IMPORTANT: PLEASE ENSURE YOU CONTACT THE AIRLINE 24 HOURS PRIOR TO TRAVELING TO INFORM THEM THAT YOUR DOG IS A SERVICE ANIMAL, SO THE AIRLINE CAN MAKE APPROPRIATE ACCOMODATIONS
Best Places to Book Flights
- Airline websites (direct booking allows easier pet coordination)
- Google Flights (best for comparing routes and prices)
- Expedia or similar aggregators (verify pet policies after booking)
Tip: After booking your flight, call the airline directly to confirm your dog’s reservation.
Dog-Friendly Dining Near UF
Many pet parents look for nearby dining options before or after appointments.
Popular Dog-Friendly Spots in Gainesville:
- The Top – Outdoor seating, casual comfort food
- Public & General – Dog-friendly patio, relaxed atmosphere
- Depot Park – Multiple food options, outdoor space for dogs
Always confirm current pet policies, as seating availability may change.
Final Travel Tips for Heart Dogs
- Keep travel days calm and unrushed
- Bring medications, medical records, and emergency contacts
- Avoid excessive walking before surgery
- Notify the UF surgical team if travel complications arise
Traveling for mitral valve repair is a big step but with proper planning, many dogs and families arrive safely and comfortably. The Mighty Hearts Project and UF team are here to support you every step of the way.
Financial Support For Dog Families
Access to mitral valve repair surgery in the U.S. is still limited, and programs like at UF help expand treatment availability and clinical knowledge. However, cost in the U.S. is however much higher compared to other surgery locations, making affordability difficult without accepted insurance. Many owners choose to fundraise or seek financial support ( to help cover costs, especially for urgent cases.
Important Planning Notes
- UF typically requires clear payment arrangements before surgery
- Travel, lodging, medications, and follow-up care should be factored into total cost planning
- Early outreach to nonprofits and lenders improves options and flexibility
Get Started with MVR Surgery Application
If your dog has advanced mitral valve disease and you’re considering this type of treatment, speak with your cardiologist and have them begin the referral consultation process with the University of Florida Small Animal Hospital as early as possible – exam slots and surgical dates can fill many months out, generally 12 months without a wait list cancellation.
Request for Mitral Valve Repair Surgery Consult
MVR Consultation Request Guide
USDOT Service Animal Air Transportation Form
Mighty Hearts Project is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that supports dogs with Mitral Valve Disease through surgical intervention.
Disclaimer: The information provided on the website is for educational and informational purposes only and is not meant as a substitute for advice from a trained veterinarian or any other medical professional. Please do your own research and contact each clinic performing MVR surgery for the most up to date information.