If your dog is scheduled for surgery, you may have questions or concerns, especially if it's their first time. Our vets in South Lebanon have provided a comprehensive guide on everything you need to know about surgery in dogs.
Canine surgical procedures are categorized as either elective or obligatory. At Little Miami Veterinary Services, we believe it is important for dog owners to understand why their vet is recommending surgery and what to expect during and after that process.
Common Dog Surgeries
Some of the most common elective surgeries in dogs include:
- Spay
- Neuter
- Dental extractions
- Benign growths of the skin
Some of the more urgent care surgeries for dogs include:
- Skin lacerations or abscesses
- Intestinal obstruction from a foreign body
- Internal bleeding
- Torn cruciate or ACL ruptures
- Fracture repair
- Malignant skin tumors
- Bladder stones/urethral blockages
- Spleen cancer
In most situations, a dog would need emergency surgery to save its life.
Surgery often raises a slew of anxieties, from potential complications to the outlook for recovery. However, it should be noted that because veterinary care has advanced to include all modern considerations, the likelihood of your dog experiencing serious consequences from most surgery are extremely low.
Preparing Your Dog for Surgery
Before deciding on surgery for your dog, the vet will conduct an examination. If your pet is overweight, the vet may recommend a weight-loss program before the surgery. Being overweight increases the Irish of anesthesia and makes it difficult for your pet to move after the surgery.
You may want to bathe and clean your dog in the week leading up to surgery, as this will help the vet's preparation process. Additionally, you need to keep the incision dry while it heals, so your dog won't be able to be groomed for a period after surgery.
Plan transportation ahead of time, considering the type of surgery your pet will have and their mobility level afterward. If you're unsure how to transport your pet after surgery, ask your vet for advice. If crate rest is needed, have an appropriate create ready for when your pet returns home.
In most cases, you will be asked not to let your dog eat or drink anything for a few hours up to a day prior to surgery. If your dog is on medication, consult with your veterinarian about whether you should pause the medication until after the operation. Some veterinarians may also request that you bring your pet to the veterinary hospital overnight.
Your Dog's Recovery From Surgery
Recovery from surgery is critical for your dog. Follow the post-op instructions closely, and don't hesitate to contact our vet if you're unclear about anything.
Following surgery, your dog may experience a temporary loss of appetite. Instead, you could serve a half-size portion of a light meal like chicken or rice. Your dog's appetite should return within 24 hours of its operation. If your dog hasn't eaten in more than 48 hours after surgery, contact your veterinarian.
Your vet may prescribe pain relievers or medication to help with post-surgery discomfort or pain. Ensure you follow the instructions carefully to avoid unnecessary pain. Never give your dog hum medication without consulting your vet first.
Most vets will recommend limiting your dog's movements as excessive stretching or jumping can interfere with recovery and cause incisions to reopen. Most dogs will be able to stay inside for a few days, only going outside for bathroom breaks.
It may be difficult to completely prevent your dog from jumping or running if you cannot provide round-the-clock supervision. You may consult your vet on how to confine your dog to a laundry-sized or smaller pen with gradually increasing amounts of exercise as the recovery process progresses.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. Please make an appointment with your vet to accurately diagnose your pet's condition.