Post Operative Dog Care

Your dog has had a general anaesthetic today and may be drowsy when you get home. This is normal after a general anaesthetic. Your dog should be back to normal within 24-48 hours, but will need to be kept quiet and warm this evening.

A small area of hair may have been clipped from one or both of your dog’s legs and /or the neck, don’t worry this will soon grow back. This is to allow the administration of anaesthetic, and for the collection of blood samples. Anaesthesia usually involves placing a breathing tube in the windpipe and occasionally this may cause a little irritation afterwards. You may notice slight coughing, but this should not persist for more than a day or so.

Medication - If medication has been dispensed it should be given as directed so please read the dosage carefully and complete the course of tablets.
Feeding - Later this evening your dog may want food and water. Please offer a small amount of the Gastro Intestinal diet that you have been given. Water should be available at all times.

Additional Aftercare if your pet has had surgery

Wound Care - If your dog has had surgery it is important that you regularly check any wounds or dressings. If you notice any problems such as swelling, discharge or redness, or the dressing has slipped or appears to be uncomfortable please contact the surgery for further advice. Dressings should be kept clean and dry at all times. It is important that your dog does not interfere with any wounds or dressings by licking or chewing. We advise that your dog goes home with a collar or pet shirt to prevent this.

If you have selected a pet shirt, please be aware that your dog will require you to un-do the shirt before toileting. It is vital that the pet shirt stays clean and dry in order to help wound healing. If you are unsure as how the pet shirt works please ask a member of staff and they will happily show you. Please check your dog over every day to ensure the vest is not rubbing.

Your dog should be kept in for 24 hours apart from brief toilet visits into the garden. For the next 10-14 days your dog should have gentle lead exercise only. Try to avoid energetic behaviour e.g. jumping on chairs.
Check-ups - Please arrange a post-operative check-up for 3-5 days time so we can monitor your dog's progress. A follow-up is required in 10-14days for suture check/removal dependant on what suture has been used (You will be advised on this)

Medication - Your pet may have been given an antibiotic and painkiller injection following their operation. If the Vet has prescribed further medication, it should be given as directed and started the morning after surgery, unless otherwise stated.

Some useful tips for giving tablets:

a) Put the tablet in a treat or mix the tablet in with a small amount of food
b) The further you tilt your dog's head back, the less tension there will be on the jaw and the easier it will be to drop a tablet onto the back of the tongue.
c) If you are worried about using your fingers, try a 'Pill Popper'? Ask us to demonstrate one to you.

If you have any concerns or queries please do not hesitate to contact the surgery.