It can be easy to feel stressed or worried when your dog comes home from surgery. Providing a peaceful, quiet, and comfortable environment is the most important factor to a dog’s surgical recovery process.
On top of this, it’s crucial to keep their incision marks safe from water, dirt, or licking. Be present, be attentive, and be comforting to your dog, and never hesitate to call your veterinarian if you suspect something is off.
American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. (n.d.). After Surgery: How to care for your pet.
Humane Rescue Alliance. (n.d.). How to care for your pet after surgery.
Hunter, T., et al. (n.d.). Post-operative instructions in dogs. VCA Animal Hospitals.
Maryland Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. (n.d.). Post-op instructions.
Robertson, S. (2016). Basic "TLC" and nursing techniques that can make all the difference to your patients. World Small Animal Veterinary Association Congress Proceedings, 2016.
Walker Smith, N., et al. (2021). Post-operative care for pets. Veterinary Partner.