Picking Up Your Dog After Surgery
March 5, 2009 by Paris and John
Filed under Health, Tips
Yesterday we talked about questions you should ask as you prepare your dog for surgery, ones we learned just this week when our dog Tiki needed a busted nail removed.
Today we’ll discuss picking up your dog after the surgery. You’ll be excited to pick up your dog and get him home…but what do you need to ask while you’re at the vet’s office? Most vets will have discharge instructions to send home with you but you may want to have your own questions prepared such as:
- How long will the anesthesia impact my dog’s behavior? Should I expect him to be sleepy the remainder of the day?
- What pain-killing medication does he need and when should that begin?
- What can my dog eat tonight? Should I feed the usual amount? Solid food or only liquids?
- Are there any restrictions on his activity? For how long?
- Can I walk him like usual? If not, when can we resume a regular walking schedule?
- How should I care for the sutures? For how long?
- If my dog takes any medications, when should I resume giving those medications?
- What post-surgery medications is my dog being sent home with and when do I begin those? Should I give them with food?
- What symptoms should I watch for and, if I see them, should I call the vet clinic or we come in? If it’s after hours, should I go to an emergency clinic with my dog or wait until the next day?
These are just some general questions to give you an idea of how to prepare for your dog’s trip back home. Sit down with a pen and a piece of paper and think of questions that may come to mind. It’s much easier to ask while you’re at the clinic rather than at bedtime when you notice a potential problem! Spending a few minutes preparing and asking questions will make your dog’s return home happier for both of you.
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