Vet Advice: Caring For Your Dog After An Operation

If your dog needs to undergo surgery, you may be concerned about how they will recover after the operation. This article will provide you will all the information you need to know about caring for your pet post op.

Allow your dog to rest

Your dog may experience some pain and tiredness after an operation. In the days following the operation, you should allow your dog to rest as much as it needs to. If there is a risk of infection to the wound, your vet may recommend that you do not take your dog outside for a walk. Once this period has passed, you should trust that your dog will let you know when they are ready to go for a walk. When you take them for their first walk, you should keep them on a lead and keep the walk slow and short so the dog doesn't get too tired.

Keep your dog as calm as possible

Stress can cause your dog's immune system to decline. During their recovery, you should do everything you can to keep your pet calm and relaxed. This means not playing loud music while they are trying to rest and not shouting or arguing with other people in front of the dog. Talk to your dog and stroke them to keep them content and happy.

Keep your dog away from other pets

If you have other pets in the home, you should keep the dog which is in recovery away from them. Your dog may be disoriented and slightly aggressive as they recover from the aesthetic and deal with any post-op pain, and this may lead to them snapping at other animals.

Stop them from licking the wound

Your dog will want to lick the wound as it heals. This is because the wound may feel itchy as the flesh knits together again. However, it is important that you do everything you can to stop your dog from licking the wound. If your dog licks the wound, it could become infected. Your vet should be able to give you a plastic cone which fits around your pet's head and which will prevent it from being able to reach the wound with its mouth.

If you would like further advice about caring for your dog after their surgery, you should contact your local vet. The vet will be happy to give you all the help you need.