Surgery can be a daunting concept for pet owners and their pets. Careful pre- and post-operative planning are necessary to ensure a smooth recovery. Surgery can become an essential part of pet care for owners in many cases—some types of pet surgery are for preventative measures. In contrast, surgery may be required in other cases to resolve a medical condition or alleviate pain.
When a vet recommends surgery for your pet, they will discuss all the risks and ensure you are aware of every piece of information. Your pet’s age, weight and medical history are all factors that will play a role in their prognosis, and a reputable vet will help you prepare your cat or dog for surgery.
Common pet surgeries include spaying and neutering to prevent unwanted pregnancies, sexual urges, or aggression. Dental extractions are also common procedures, and your veterinarian will discuss whether your pet will be under anaesthesia during the procedure. It’s natural to wonder about the risks of anaesthesia, but a veterinarian will go over every detail to put your mind at ease.
Helping Your Pet Recovery Quickly
The correct information will help your pet heal quickly, and the following recovery tips will help in this regard:
1. Create a comfortable, quiet space for your pet somewhere safe and secure, as this kind of environment will help them recover quickly.
2. Follow the aftercare instructions precisely and ensure you understand this information before leaving the veterinary clinic. Protect the incision site from licking with a plastic collar you can get from the vet, and ask as many questions as you have to know what to do once you and your pet go home.
E-Collars may be uncomfortable and cause abnormal reactions, but your pet must wear one after surgery to prevent aggravating recent incision sites. With coaxing and positive reinforcement, your pet will grow somewhat used to the collar over time. Before you know it, the collar can be removed as they begin to show signs of full recovery.
1. Facilitate gentle exercise for your pet and pay close attention to their diet. Start with slow and moderate walks and feed them small frequent amounts of their regular diet for the first few days after an operation. Your veterinarian will give you discharge instructions if your pet requires any special restrictions.
2. Supervise your pet. Make sure your schedule allows you to be there for your pet after their surgery because they will need to be monitored to ensure no complications occur. Keep them inside as much as possible for their safety and if you notice that their recovery is not going well, contact your vet immediately.
3. Manage their pain. Your vet may prescribe your pet medications and provide you with strict instructions to help manage their pain. Follow their directions carefully and provide your pet with the proper dosage.
All surgical procedures must be taken seriously, and following aftercare directions will ensure a speedy pet surgery recovery. Listen closely to what your vet says—your pet will be playing and running around in no time! If you do not comply with the veterinarian’s instructions, your pet may experience complications, including an infection.
Looking for Veterinarians Near You in Bowmanville or Courtice?
Animal Clinic of East Durham will discuss every aspect of your pet’s surgery, including aftercare instructions and additional recovery tips. If you are looking for vets near you in Bowmanville or Courtice, we are ready to help. Our clinic will prioritize your pet’s health, and we will put them on the road to fast recovery. If your pet requires surgery, contact our veterinary clinic at +1 905-697-7771!
