Abdominal surgery courses at the doc4pets Academy – practical training under the direction of specialist Dr. Kühnel-Lawatsch
The doc4pets Academy offers with their highly qualified courses in abdominal surgery An excellent opportunity for veterinarians to specifically develop their surgical skills. Under the dedicated and outstanding professional guidance of Specialist veterinarian for surgery Dr. Sandra Kühnel-Lawatsch Practical content is taught that is specifically tailored to everyday life in small animal practice.
Specialist Dr. Sandra Kühnel-Lawatsch – sound expertise with heart and experience
Dr. Sandra Kühnel-Lawatsch studied veterinary medicine at the University of Leipzig from 2000 to 2006 and subsequently earned her doctorate from the Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich in 2008. Even during her studies, she demonstrated a particular interest in surgery, which she consistently pursued throughout her career. From 2007 to 2010, she worked as an assistant veterinarian at the renowned Hofheim Veterinary Clinic, where she gained extensive clinical experience and comprehensive insights into various specialties within small animal medicine.
From 2010, Dr. Kühnel-Lawatsch specialized in the oncology department at the Hofheim Veterinary Clinic, where she continuously expanded her knowledge in the field of tumor surgery and interdisciplinary oncological care. In 2011, she earned the title of Specialist Veterinarian for Small Animals and Companion Animals, which underscores her comprehensive qualifications and commitment to thorough continuing education.
Since 2023, she has headed the Department of Oncological Surgery at the Hofheim Veterinary Clinic, where she is primarily responsible for performing complex tumor surgeries and for the further development of surgical standards in the field of oncology. In parallel, she is actively involved in the continuing education of veterinarians, sharing her extensive experience in practical courses.
Since March 2025, Dr. Sandra Kühnel-Lawatsch has been working as an independent surgeon, specializing in soft tissue and tumor surgery. With her extensive clinical experience, calm and clear manner, and strong didactic skills, she conveys surgical knowledge in an understandable, structured, and practical way.
Abdominal surgery for veterinarians with practical experience
The training course is aimed at veterinarians with initial surgical experience – for example, through regular castrations – who wish to further develop their surgical skills in the abdominal soft tissue surgery We want to expand this area in a targeted manner. The focus is on practical techniques, clearly presented specialist knowledge, and safe implementation in the operating room.
Comprehensive course content – all important procedures in the abdominal cavity
The curriculum covers a broad spectrum of typical procedures in the field of abdominal surgery – from basic operations to more complex procedures. Among other topics, the following are covered:
- Ovariohysterectomy and ovariectomy in dogs and cats
- Cystotomy (bladder stone removal)
- Enterotomy / enterectomy for foreign bodies or bowel obstruction
- Gastrotomy and gastropexy
- Splenectomy (removal of the spleen)
- Liver biopsies, bowel biopsies and other sample collections
- Management of peritonitis and abdominal complications
A particular focus is placed on the precise surgical planning, dem proper use of surgical instruments, the correct suturing technique as well as the Management of complications.
Intensive training in small groups for maximum learning success
The concept of the doc4pets Academy is based on intensive support in small groups, These courses emphasize individual learning and personal feedback. Participants practice the individual procedures using specimens under the guidance of Dr. Kühnel-Lawatsch. They benefit not only from her surgical expertise but also from her didactic talent for explaining complex processes in an understandable way.
Target group: Practicing veterinarians with basic surgical knowledge
This course is ideal for all veterinarians who wish to expand their surgical repertoire and have already gained initial practical surgical experience – for example, in castrations. It is also perfectly suited for those returning to surgery after a break, helping them regain confidence in the operating room.
Why participating in the doc4pets Academy is worthwhile
- Highly qualified speaker with experience from top clinics
- Intensive practical exercises in small groups
- Current surgical standards and operating techniques
- Perfect preparation for frequent procedures in everyday practice
- Valuable tips for the surgical procedure and patient care
Take advantage of this opportunity and register now for the next abdominal surgery course led by board-certified specialist Dr. Sandra Kühnel-Lawatsch. Learn in a practical, safe, and enjoyable way – for greater confidence in soft tissue surgery in the abdominal cavity.
👉 All information & registration at: tierarzt-fortbildungen.de/weichteilchirurgie-fuer-tieraerzte
FAQs for the course „Abdominal Surgery at the doc4pets Academy“ led by Dr. Sandra Kühnel-Lawatsch
Who is the course in abdominal surgery suitable for?
This course is primarily aimed at practicing veterinarians with basic surgical experience – particularly in castration and simple soft tissue procedures. Participants should have already performed initial surgeries independently and now wish to gain more confidence in advanced abdominal surgical procedures. The course is also ideal for veterinarians who wish to refresh their surgical skills after a professional break, as well as for colleagues who want to consolidate their routine and gain a better understanding of complication management.
Whether employed veterinarians in small animal practices, self-employed practice owners or those returning to the profession – anyone who wants to acquire or deepen sound, practical knowledge in the field of abdominal surgery is in the right place here.
Which specific surgical techniques are taught in the course?
The course focuses on the most common soft tissue surgeries in the abdominal cavity of dogs and cats. These include classic procedures such as... Ovariohysterectomy (spaying of the female dog), the Cystotomy for the removal of bladder stones, which Enterotomy and Enterectomy in the case of foreign bodies or diseased sections of the intestine, as well as the Gastrotomy and Gastropexy to stabilize the stomach, e.g., in cases of gastric torsion. Also the Splenectomy (Removal of the spleen), Liver and bowel biopsies as well as the surgical care of a Peritonitis or tumors in the abdomen are discussed.
All surgical procedures are not only discussed theoretically, but also practiced with a strong focus on practical implementation – including surgical preparation, positioning, instrument knowledge, suturing techniques and aseptic work.
How does the practical part of the course work?
The practical part of the course is particularly intensive and takes place in small groups to ensure an optimal learning environment. Each participant actively works on animal specimens and, under supervision, performs the previously discussed surgical techniques themselves.
Dr. Kühnel-Lawatsch places great importance on individual feedback, A calm learning atmosphere and a structured approach – even for more complex procedures. Mistakes are allowed, as this is the only way to achieve lasting learning. Participants also benefit from exchanging experiences with one another and from the continuous support of the experienced instructor.
What materials and documents do the participants receive?
Each course participant receives comprehensive Script with all surgical techniques, This resource serves both as preparation and a reference guide in practice. The materials include step-by-step instructions, schematic drawings, checklists for surgical preparation, information on patient positioning, instrument selection, and tips for avoiding typical complications.
The aim is for participants not only to learn during the course, but also to be able to sustainably integrate what they have learned into their everyday practice.
What advantages does the course at the doc4pets Academy offer compared to other training courses?
The doc4pets Academy stands for high-quality, practical continuing education courses with experienced instructors and a clear focus on the needs of practicing veterinarians. The course with Dr. Sandra Kühnel-Lawatsch is particularly compelling due to:
small learning groups for intensive work
one high practical relevance all conveyed content
the many years of surgical experience the lecturer from clinic and practice
one structured-didactic instruction with real practical relevance
one pleasant learning atmosphere, which is also suitable for „insecure surgeons“.
Furthermore, participants benefit from the Academy's excellent organization, modern training facilities, and a collegial exchange on equal footing. Anyone seeking sustainable surgical knowledge that can be immediately applied in everyday practice will find the ideal setting here.
Summary: Abdominal surgery courses at the doc4pets Academy
The Abdominal surgery courses The doc4pets Academy offers practicing veterinarians an outstanding opportunity to further develop their surgical skills in a targeted manner. Under the experienced guidance of FTÄ Dr. Sandra Kühnel-Lawatsch, a specialist veterinarian with many years of clinical experience in soft tissue and oncological surgery, will be responsible for the Abdominal surgery courses carried out with a high level of expertise and strong practical relevance.
The focus of Abdominal surgery courses The focus is on the safe learning and refinement of surgical techniques in the abdominal cavity. These include, among others, ovariohysterectomy, cystotomy, enterotomy, gastrotomy, and splenectomy. Abdominal surgery courses are aimed at veterinarians with initial surgical experience who wish to professionalize their skills.
The contents of Abdominal surgery courses The courses are structured systematically and include both theoretical foundations and extensive practical exercises. Techniques are practiced in small groups under realistic conditions – this ensures lasting learning success. This is particularly valued by the participants. Abdominal surgery courses Dr. Kühnel-Lawatsch's calm, structured and motivating manner, which individually accompanies each participant.
A major advantage of the Abdominal surgery courses The intensive support allows for detailed discussion of personal questions and uncertainties. The practical content enables participants to immediately apply what they have learned to their own daily practice. In addition, all participants receive high-quality materials that remain relevant even after the course has ended. Abdominal surgery courses to serve as a reference work.
The Abdominal surgery courses The doc4pets Academy is characterized by a modern learning environment, high levels of expertise, and a clear focus on the daily surgical routine in small animal practice. Anyone wishing to further their surgical skills and learn in a professional, collegial setting will find what they need here. Abdominal surgery courses an ideal platform.
Thanks to the sound methodology, the high practical relevance and the experienced team, the Abdominal surgery courses It has established itself as particularly effective and popular. Many veterinarians attend further courses after their first one. Abdominal surgery courses, to delve even deeper into specific topics.
Overall, the Abdominal surgery courses At the doc4pets Academy, you'll find it a worthwhile investment in your professional development, increasing safety in the operating room, imparting new knowledge, and building genuine routine. For those seeking modern, expertly led, and practical training... Abdominal surgery courses If you're looking for something, you've come to the right place – because this Abdominal surgery courses They offer far more than mere theory: they create surgical safety systematically.