When a dog undergoes surgery, pet owners must take care of them post-operation to ensure a smooth and speedy recovery. Your attention and diligent care can help your furry friend get back to their daily routine as soon as possible. Our vets in Pittsboro share some tips on how you can take care of your dog after surgery.
Always Follow Surgery Post-Op Instructions
Both you and your dog will likely feel some stress in the days before and after surgery. However, understanding how to care for your canine companion after they settle in at home is critical to helping them return to their routine as soon as possible.
After your dog's procedure, your vet will provide detailed instructions on caring for your pup at home. It is crucial to follow these instructions carefully to ensure a safe and successful recovery. If you have any questions or concerns about the steps recommended, please don't hesitate to ask your vet for clarification.
If you forget how to complete a specific step mentioned in the instructions, you can always call our office to verify. Depending on the type of procedure required, the surgery will either be performed in-house or referred to a professional veterinary surgeon nearby.
At Pittsboro Animal Hospital in Pittsboro, our team is committed to providing your dog with attentive, high-quality care. We offer advice on at-home measures, such as post-op care, that can have a significant positive impact.
Effects of General Anesthetic
Your dog was likely given a general anesthetic to prevent pain during surgery. The effects of anesthesia may take some time to wear off.
Feeding Your Dog After Surgery
After surgery, your dog might not eat due to the side effects of the anesthetic, which can cause nausea. In such cases, you can offer your dog a smaller portion of a light meal like chicken or rice, which are easier to digest than their regular store-bought food.
If your dog is not eating after surgery, don't worry. Your dog's appetite should return within about 24 hours, and you can gradually reintroduce their normal food.
However, if it has been more than 48 hours and your dog still won't eat after surgery, it could be a sign of infection. In that case, you should contact your veterinarian or vet surgeon if referred to one.
Managing Your Dog’s Pain After Surgery
After your pet's surgery, your veterinarian will inform you about any pain relievers or medications that need to be prescribed. These medications help manage post-surgery discomfort or pain and prevent infection.
Your veterinarian will inform you about the appropriate dosage, how often the medication should be administered, and how to administer it safely.
It is important to follow these instructions carefully to avoid unnecessary pain for your pet and eliminate the risk of side effects. If you have any questions or concerns about the instructions, please ask follow-up questions.
Some dogs may experience anxiety or become hyperactive after surgery. In such cases, your veterinarian may prescribe anti-anxiety medication or sedatives to help your pet remain calm while they heal.
One important thing to keep in mind is that you should never give your dog human medications without consulting your veterinarian first. While human medications may help us feel better, they can be dangerous for our pets.
Set Up a Quiet, Comfortable Space
If your dog is recovering from an injury or illness, it's important to provide them with a quiet space to rest. This area should have a comfortable bed that is soft enough to prevent pressure on bandaged or sensitive body parts. It's also recommended that the bed be spacious enough for your dog to stretch out and relax away from the noise and activities of the rest of the household.
Dog Shaking or Coughing After Surgery
Have you noticed your dog shaking or coughing after surgery?
If your dog had a tube placed in their trachea (windpipe) while receiving anesthesia, this may have caused mild irritation and a slight cough. A mild post-surgical cough will usually diminish over the next few days. Contact our hospital if the coughing persists or worsens.
Shaking after surgery is typically an after-effect of anesthesia or pain control medication. Have your pet frequently eat small amounts of food, then hold them in your lap or sit next to them while speaking to them and giving lots of reassuring pets. The extra love and attention will help.
Restrict your Pet’s Movement
After your dog undergoes surgery, your vet may recommend limiting their physical activity and movement for a certain period. Sudden stretching or jumping could disrupt their recovery and cause their incisions to reopen.
Depending on the type of surgery, it may not be necessary to confine your dog completely to a cage or crate. Most dogs can stay inside for a few days and only go outside for bathroom breaks.
However, preventing your dog from climbing stairs or jumping on furniture they enjoy napping on can be challenging. If you cannot supervise your dog, you may need to keep them in a comfortable, secure room.
If your dog is recovering from orthopedic surgery, they may need to be kept in a small pen, gradually increasing their exercise as they recover.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.