In dogs requiring a midline celiotomy, closure of the rectus sheath with a continuous polyglyconate looped suture and closure of the skin with stainless steel staples (group 1, 20 dogs) were compared with closure of the rectus sheath with interrupted polyglyconate sutures and closure of the skin with a continuous subdermal polyglactin suture (group 2, 20 dogs) with respect to speed, safety, and costs. The subcutis was closed with a continuous polyglactin suture in all dogs.