6 Pet Surgery Recovery Tips
6 Pet Surgery Recovery Tips
Surgery is a major event for a pet, and can interfere with their daily function long after they return home. Help your pet get back on their paws more quickly after surgery with the following recovery tips.
#1: Assist your pet in walking — Your pet may need help standing, lying down, walking, or posturing to urinate and defecate. Use a sling or other mobility aid to help your pet perform necessary functions.
#2: Restrict your pet's activity — Keep your dog on a leash when walking outside, return inside immediately after a bathroom break, and confine them to their kennel or small room to prevent too much activity.
#3: Monitor the incision site — Check your pet's incision site several times a day for swelling, inflammation, or drainage. Keep the area clean and dry, and follow your veterinary surgeon's instructions.
#4: Apply heat and ice packs — Heat and ice therapy can reduce swelling and pain and improve circulation to promote healing. Always place a towel between an ice or heat pack and your pet's skin.
#5: Administer medication — Medicate your pet postoperatively, as instructed. If your pet is experiencing an adverse effect, inform your veterinarian immediately.
#6: Employ rehabilitative therapies — Pets who undergo orthopedic surgery often benefit greatly from postoperative rehabilitation, including laser therapy, hydrotherapy, therapeutic massage, and acupuncture.
Contact our team if you need help designing or administering your pet's postoperative recovery plan.
