Your beloved pet has just had surgery. Your pet will need special care after this time in order to recover. Dr. Kate Reynolds of Union Lake Veterinary Hospital gives you tips on domestic animal surgical care.
Prepare a dark, quiet and warm room for your pet to rest in.
Keep your pet separated from other pets and small children. Have clean, soft bedding available for your pet. Get an Elizabethan collar or cone so your pet will not lick or chew the stitches.
After surgery, pets will have balance issues. A fall could hurt them. Make sure they do not have access to stairs. Place non-skid mats or at least a thick towel over smooth floors like tile or hardwood. If you have a dog that needs to go outside, either carry the dog out or go with your dog to keep him or her steady. For larger dogs, make a sling from a large towel to loop around their bellies so you can help pull them upright.
Give your pet small amounts of water every couple of hours. Feed bland meals like boiled chicken and rice instead of their usual food for the next one or two days. Ask your vet when your pet can go back to regular food and treats.
