While every pet and procedure is a little bit different, many of the questions that owners have surrounding their pet’s recovery are similar. So before you lock yourself in the closet with a bottle of wine and quietly freak out about why you never learned about post-op pet care in college, read on to find the answers you may be looking for…

What Does My Pet Need?

Depending on your pet’s condition, he or she will need a safe place to recover. Create a quiet, low-traffic area for your pet to convalesce that is clean and comfortable. For the first 24 hours (or so) your pet will likely want to be away from any commotion, but still near enough to you and your family to feel safe. Your pet’s crate is a natural choice, as is his or her favorite quiet, secluded spot. During this time, try to minimize visitors, including small children or other pets.

Once your pet has perked up, let your him or her find a recovery spot closer to your family, if desired, and set it up to accomodae your pet through the recovery process. Your pet may be more aloof or clingy than usual during this time. Do your best to meet those needs and remember, we all recover differently and that’s okay.

You will also be given instructions on how to care for your pet which may include feeding, exercise, medication, or monitoring instructions. Be sure to follow these closely and don’t be afraid to call and ask if you have any questions.

What Do I Need to Worry About?

After surgery, your pet will need to be watched closely, especially during the 24-36 hours immediately following the procedure. Pay attention to how much your pet is eating and drinking and follow any special instructions regarding diet or water restriction.  Be sure that your pet is urinating and defecating.

Don’t be too alarmed if your pet is not as interested in water as you think he or she should be, especially if IV fluids were administered during the surgery. As long as your pet has water at the ready and is urinating within that same 24-36 hour time frame, everything is probably fine.

However, you should alert us if your pet has vomiting, diarrhea, is straining to urinate or defecate, or if there are any other concerns such as difficulty breathing, refusal to eat, and refusal to drink after the 36-hour mark has passed.

Monitor any sutures or bandages as directed, and let us know if there is weeping, excessive swelling, an odor, or any other sign of infection or cause for concern .

What About Medication?

If your pet is prescribed any medications, it is important to give these as directed.

Many animals will take their medication in a little bit of food such as peanut butter, cheese, tuna, or wet food. Some animals, however, will need to be “pilled” manually. We are happy to demonstrate to you how to accomplish this, or you may refer to these instructions for giving medication to dogs  or cats.

If you have questions regarding your pet’s medications, or are unable to give them as prescribed, please let us know.

How Do I Care for the Surgical Site?

Often after surgery, pets have sutures, staples, open wounds, or bandages that need special care. Please pay attention to the following recommendations:

  • Watch the area closely, if not covered, for any redness, swelling, drainage, or bad odor.

  • Restrict exercise, especially for the first week or so. It is often best to not allow dogs off leash during this time. Do your best to minimize running, jumping, and rough play. Some pets may need to be crated or confined in a small room.

  • Do not allow the surgery site or bandage to become dirty or wet. Do not put any type of ointment or disinfectant on the area unless instructed to do so. If a bandage slips or comes off, or if you are concerned about any stitches, please let us know right away

  • Don’t allow your pet to lick, chew, or scratch at the area. Pets may need to wear an Elizabethan collar, or “cone of shame”, to prevent them from bothering the area.

  • Return as directed for suture removal or recheck appointments. This is important so that the veterinarian can be sure everything is healing well.

Is it OK to Call?

Please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions. It can be scary to have your pet go through surgery, and we want to make the experience as stress-free as possible for both of you. Make sure to contact us right away if your pet is not acting right or if a surgery site does not look quite right.

We are happy to help and honored to be trusted with your pet’s care.