Three Fundamental Tips for Planning for Your Dog's Surgery

Posted on: 7 August 2020

If your veterinarian has recommended a surgical procedure for your canine pet, you should prepare adequately for the process. In general, it is advisable to deal with most medical conditions without invasive work because of the risks and long recovery period. Still, surgeries are often essential for managing disease and even reproductive capacity which could endanger pets. Often, the prospect of a beloved pet going through this type of procedure can be frightening. However, if you plan and take appropriate actions, your dog will have a quick and successful recovery. Here are some simple tips to keep in mind when preparing for canine surgery.

Know Food Restrictions

It is important to follow the vet's instructions on feeding before the procedure. In general, most surgeries require the pet owner to withhold food and drinks for a couple of hours or even a day before the scheduled procedure. This action is intended to ensure that the stomach is clear during the process. Consequently, there will be no risk of vomiting and subsequent pulmonary aspiration. You should discuss the exact timeline with the vet. Moreover, plan on cutting potential unknown sources of food and drinks like open food containers or even open toilet bowls.

Inquire about Medication

You should inform the veterinarian about any medication that your dog might be taking before the surgery. There might be adverse reactions to the procedure if the specialist is not provided with enough information. For instance, if the dog consumes drugs with blood thinners before the surgery, a lot of bleeding could occur. You should also discuss other compounds such as nutraceuticals and supplements. These can have an unfavourable interaction with the medicines used during the procedure such as the anaesthesia. Therefore, it is not prudent to provide them without knowing the potential negative effects.

Clean the Surroundings

Your canine pet's sleeping space should be cleaned thoroughly before the procedure. If the general surfaces are unclean, there will be risk of infection. In simple terms, the germs on the bedding could penetrate the surgical wound and cause complications during recovery. You can handle the cleaning work before taking the dog to the veterinary hospital. If possible, you should think about grooming the dog a couple of days prior to the surgery. For instance, you can cut off the nails to minimise the risk of the dog scratching the wound site and brush the fur to enhance comfort.

If you have uncertainties about any aspect of your dog's surgical procedure, consult your veterinarian with your concerns. 

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