Surgery can be a scary and stressful experience for both dogs and their owners. After the surgery is complete, it’s important to provide your pup with proper care to ensure they recover quickly and safely. To help with that, we’ve compiled 10 clever ways you can help your dog recover from surgery. From providing extra comfort to understanding the importance of exercise, these tips will make sure your dog recovers in the best way possible.
1) Follow your vet’s instructions
It is important to follow your vet’s instructions carefully when caring for your dog after surgery. Follow any instructions on activity restrictions, medications and care of the incision site. Ask your vet if you have any questions or concerns about post-operative care.
2) Keep your dog calm and quiet
Limit your dog’s activity and give them time to rest and recover. Don’t let them jump around or be too active, as this can cause further damage. Keep noise levels low and try to keep them from getting too excited. Make sure your dog has a comfortable place to sleep, like a crate or bed.
3) Keep your dog’s incision clean and dry
Gently clean the incision with warm water and mild soap, then gently pat it dry. Avoid vigorous rubbing or scrubbing as this may cause irritation. Change your dog’s bandages as instructed by your vet. Check the incision daily for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or discharge.
4) Limit your dog’s activity
It’s important to keep your dog from running, jumping, or engaging in strenuous activity after surgery. Keeping your dog’s activity to a minimum will allow the incision time to heal properly and reduce the risk of any complications. Give your pup plenty of rest and keep them confined to small areas or their crate if possible.
5) Give your dog the prescribed pain medication
It is important to give your dog the prescribed pain medication exactly as directed by your veterinarian. This helps to ensure your dog is comfortable and able to heal quickly. Be sure to follow the directions on the label carefully and never give more than the recommended dosage. Keep in mind that some medications should not be given with food or on an empty stomach, so ask your vet for specific instructions.
6) Feed your dog a soft diet
It’s important to feed your dog a soft diet during their recovery from surgery. Soft foods are easier to digest and can help reduce stomach upset. Stick to moist canned foods, boiled chicken, and mashed vegetables. Avoid treats and hard kibble, which can be difficult to chew.
7) Keep your dog hydrated
Make sure to provide your pup with plenty of fresh water throughout the day. Also, provide moist food if possible as it can help increase their fluid intake. If your pup isn’t interested in drinking, you can try adding a bit of flavor like chicken broth to the water.
8) Check your dog’s incision daily
It is important to check your dog’s incision every day to make sure that it is healing properly. Look for signs of infection such as redness, swelling, discharge, and warmth around the wound. If any of these signs are present, contact your vet immediately. In addition, you should also keep an eye out for excessive licking or chewing at the incision. This can cause it to open up and become infected.
9) Take your dog back to the vet for follow-up appointments
It is important to take your dog back to the vet for follow-up appointments after surgery. This will allow the vet to assess your dog’s recovery and make sure everything is healing correctly. Your vet may also prescribe medications or suggest lifestyle changes that may help with your dog’s recovery. Make sure to follow all of your vet’s instructions and keep any follow-up appointments they may have recommended.
10) Be patient!
Recovery from surgery takes time, and it’s important to give your dog the space and time to heal. Be understanding and provide your pup with the love and care they need. Allow them to move around at their own pace, don’t rush them. Provide ample rest, but don’t keep them cooped up all the time. Encourage small amounts of exercise, such as short walks around the block.