After your dog undergoes a spay, there are some things you should keep in mind. It is important to refrain from vigorous exercise after the procedure, as this can lead to the surgical site reopening. Moreover, it is important to give your dog some time to recover and may require an antibiotic or anti-inflammatory medication.
Exercise restriction
After your dog has undergone a spay or neuter operation, you should ask your vet about an exercise restriction. Though moderate playtime is fine, it’s important to limit high-impact physical activity for a couple of weeks.
Over-the-counter medications
There are a few things you should remember when caring for your dog after a spay. First, you shouldn’t give it any pain relievers that you bought over the counter. This is because many OTC medications are meant for humans and can have harmful side effects on pets. You should also consult with your veterinarian before giving your dog any OTC medication.
Pre-op medications
Before your dog has surgery, he will be given certain medications, including pain medication, as well as antibiotics. It is important to let the veterinarian know if he is on any prescription medications. Your pet will need to stay quiet for ten to fourteen days after the surgery. You should also arrange for someone to watch your pet during this time.
Post-op monitoring
The post-op monitoring for the dog after spaying should be performed as soon as possible following the procedure to minimize the risks. The dog should be kept indoors for the first seven to ten days after the surgery, as prolonged exposure to the elements can damage the sutures. A small, nutritious meal should be offered to the pet on the evening of the surgery. Although most pets can return to their normal activities the next day, the patient must be monitored for several days to ensure no infection develops.
Food
After the spay procedure, your dog will need a lot of rest and attention. It may also be a little aggressive, so keep your dog indoors and away from children and other pets. Your pet may also be unsteady and more likely to fall, which can rip stitches or cause internal bleeding. It may be better to keep the dog in a quiet area, such as a bathroom, where there is plenty of room to move around.
Bed pad
After surgery, it’s important to have a comfortable bed for your pet. The right bed should be low to the ground and prevent your pup from climbing up. A bed pad will also help keep your dog’s bed clean since your dog will be prone to vomit and accidents after the procedure.
Checking incision twice a day
Afterward, you should check the incision twice a day. Make sure it is not too red, and check for any bruising or swelling. If you see any, have your veterinarian check it again. If it looks infected or bleeding, your dog should not be allowed to chew on it or rollover. This can cause an infection and split the incision open.