Has Your Pup Just Been Spayed? 3 Steps To Help It Recover Properly
If your puppy has just been spayed, there are some steps you should take to make sure that he recovers properly. After all, spaying is major surgery. Without proper post-operative care, your dog may develop complications that could have devastating results. Here are three steps you should take to ensure that your puppy has a complete post-operative recovery.
Keep It Calm
In order to recover properly, your puppy is going to need some time off of its feet. That can be difficult, especially for a puppy that's full of energy. Unfortunately, without the proper rest, your puppy could be seriously harmed. In fact, over-exertion after surgery could cause the sutures to come loose, which could lead to scrotal rupture. To protect your active puppy, keep it contained in a crate for the first couple of weeks after surgery. This will ensure that your puppy gets the rest it needs. Be sure to bring it out for restroom breaks and feedings.
Avoid Baths During the Recovery Period
It can be tempting to give your puppy a bath after surgery, especially if you rescued it from an animal shelter, or it's had an accident in its crate. However, giving your puppy a bath before the sutures have healed could allow bacteria to enter the wound site, which could lead to an infection. Not only that but the excess moisture from the water could cause the sutures to come loose prematurely. To ensure that your puppy heals properly, avoid baths until the veterinarian gives the okay. If your pup starts smelling foul, use a dry-shampoo to eliminate the odor. Dry-shampoos are available at most pet supply stores. Be sure to follow the label instructions and avoid spraying the wound area.
Keep an Eye on the Incision
Once you get your puppy home, you'll need to inspect the incision at least twice a day. Inspecting the wound will allow you to notice any warning signs as soon as they occur. Some of the warning signs you should watch for include:
- Increased swelling
- Foul-smelling discharge
- Excessive bleeding
If you notice any of the warning signs described above, you should take your puppy to the veterinarian as soon as possible.
If you've just had your puppy spayed, it's important to remember that it's undergone major surgery. The tips provided here will help you care for your pup during the post-operative recovery period. For other information on how to care for your pup following surgery, be sure to consult with veterinarian, such as those found at Caring Hands Animal Hospital.
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