Bringing your pet in for surgery can be a frightening experience. During the procedure, you may feel worried about their health, and once they find you, the healing process begins. What steps can you take to help your dog recover?
How to Care for Your Dog After Surgery
Once your dog has undergone surgery, the best thing you can do is ensure he gets enough rest. Your veterinarian may recommend that you place them on cage rest and limit their movements to aid their recovery. It is important to respect the recommended by veterinarian time limit for crate rest, even if your dog appears to have healed or wants to become active. This is crucial to allow for optimal healing. While crate rest is not recommended, it is still important to keep your dog calm and relaxed for about a week after surgery. Limit play time and take short walks to prevent them from overexerting themselves.
Your pet’s mobility during recovery
It is essential to follow your veterinarian’s instructions during the recovery process. Even if your dog is resting in a crate, he will still need to go out to relieve himself. Therefore, it is important to find a safe way to help your dog and limit the pressure on him.
Support your pet safely
![Canine support sling for dogs](https://www.handicappedpets.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2022/09/Ernie_Support-Sling.jpg)
If your dog has had leg, hip or back surgery, it is important to provide specialist support. A lifting harness or support sling can be helpful in reducing pressure on their legs and making movement easier.
Consulting your veterinarian can help you determine the best support harness that will not cause irritation or discomfort to the surgical site while still providing appropriate support to the affected area of your dog’s body.
Can a dog wheelchair help a dog heal?
After receiving approval from the veterinarian, a dog Wheelchair can effectively restore your dog’s independence after surgery. The wheelchair is an ideal addition to your pet’s rehabilitation program, allowing them to walk with the added support of the cart.
Things to consider for post-operative care
- A playpen: Your dog will probably need to be confined after the operation. It is optimal to have an enclosed area so that your dog is safe, comfortable and in a place where you don’t have to worry about his movements!
- An E cone helps prevent your puppy from licking and examining open wounds while being carried. Many dogs hate E-collars, but there are many alternatives on the market. THE Collar without cone adapts perfectly to your dog’s neck and is more complicated for your dog to get off without affecting his visibility!
- Try a support sling to help your dog stand up and take some pressure off his joints when you take him out to go potty.
- If your dog has had spinal surgery, the walking vertebra will stabilize the spine and relieve pressure, allowing more support, and can be worn all day. THE Walking vertebra is fully adjustable, so you change it depending on how your dog is healing.
- A puzzle toy: Being locked up is boring! Your dog will need mental stimulation so he doesn’t try to escape the crate or become upset and risk further injury. A snuff mat is ideal for hiding treats, so your puppy can get a little brain exercise!
- The most crucial post-operative treatment is all the love and cuddles you can give!
Every dog’s surgical recovery will be different, so it’s important to follow your veterinarian’s instructions carefully! Before surgery, ask questions so you are as prepared as possible, and the veterinary office will always be available by phone if you need help!
![Dachshund wheelchair buy now](https://www.handicappedpets.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2022/08/Dachshunds-WC-CTA.jpg)