Ensure Your Pet’s Successful Surgery Recovery with These Tips
Orthopedic surgery is a crucial moment in the life of any pet, so aiding your furry friend to make a rapid recovery should be one of your top priorities. By following the below tips, you can help them return back to their normal self even faster!
#1: Prevent over-activity
During their recovery period, pets may not comprehend the need to be still and quiet. While they might soon feel up for running around, it’s essential to keep your pup leashed on outdoor walks, head straight home after using the restroom outdoors, and contain them in a kennel or small room until fully healed from surgery – this will help prevent over-activity.
#2: Help your pet with basic functions
If your beloved pet struggles with any of the basic functions such as standing, lying down, walking and posturing to urinate or defecate – a sling or other mobility aid can help support them in performing these activities safely and securely. This will ensure that your furry friend is safe from harm while helping them carry out essential tasks.
#3: Check on the incision site
To ensure your pet’s incision heals in a healthy manner, make sure to check the wound site multiple times daily for any signs of inflammation or drainage. Ensure that it remains clean and dry per instructions from your veterinarian surgeon.
#4: Use heat and ice therapy
With the combination of heat and ice therapy, your pet can benefit from reduced swelling and pain, as well as improved circulation for a faster recovery. For the first three days after surgery, be sure to use an ice pack; following that period, switch over to using a heating pad. To protect their skin from any damage, always place a towel between them and the packs – don’t forget to check with your veterinarian prior to utilizing either one!
#5: Give prescribed medicine
It is essential to administer post-operative medication for your pet as instructed by your veterinarian. Your furry companion may appear to be recovering quickly, and you might think that they no longer need painkillers. However, it is vital to keep administering the medicine indicated. In case of any adverse effects (such as vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite or excessive sedation), reach out to your vet without delay.
#6: Aid your pet’s recovery with rehabilitation
Postoperative rehabilitation can be a tremendous asset for pets who have undergone orthopedic surgery, helping them to heal faster and rebuild their muscle strength. The following therapies are ideal for aiding your pet’s recovery:
- Laser therapy
- Hydrotherapy (i.e., underwater treadmill)
- Therapeutic massage
- Passive range-of-motion exercises
- Therapeutic ultrasound
- Acupuncture
- Chiropractic care
- Neuromuscular electrical stimulation
Our team is here to help ensure your pet successfully rebounds following surgery. We’ll work with you on a recovery and rehabilitation plan that’s tailored to your pet’s needs, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you require assistance crafting or executing the postoperative process.