Preparing dogs for surgery

An emergency surgery on a dog might take us by surprise but if you have a planned surgery ie desexing, removing a lump or an exploratory procedure you can take steps to properly prepare your pet.

See if you are able to time the procedure around the time you can most provide care to your pet on their return home.

Check that all their vaccinations are current and find out if there are any they require for being admitted to the surgery and at the time frame prior they need to be administered.  Some need time to become effective.

Speak to your vet about the length of time your dog should fast before surgery and let them take it easy a few days prior to reduce the potential risk of addition problems, a cut or strain etc.

If bathing is not necessary you could still give your dog a good brushing prior to surgery as afterwards he may be sore for a while and not tolerate it.

You may need to arrange something to stop the dog from licking their surgery wound or sutures.  An Elizabethan style collar is often recommended.  There is a soft version of this called a Comfy cone which now comes with stays to help it stay stiff enough.  A softy cone can help everyone get a better nights sleep.

Never give a dog an anti-inflammatory designed for humans as it can be toxic.

 

Leah & Angela OMeara

Hound Dog Day Care (Specialists in Dog Minding & Dog Boarding, Pet Sitting Brisbane & Doggy Day Care Brisbane)