IMPORTANT

 AFTER  SURGERY CARE  FOR  YOUR  PET

THE WOUND:

Regardless of the type of surgery, the incision area should always be kept clean and dry. The pet should not be bathed or immersed in water during the 10-14 day closure time nor should they be allowed out in bad weather or muddy ground.

Weeping (seepage) from the wound isn't that uncommon but any heavy or continuous bleeding should be reported to the veterinarian at once. This is especially true in Dobermans and Rottweillers. Both of these breeds have high instances of Von Willebrand's Disease that inhibits the proper clotting of the blood.

PAIN CONTROL:

Pain medications will be given if your veterinarian anticipates pain. It can be difficult to assess pain in animals but any change in behaviour such as decreased activity, sleeping more, agitation or lameness might indicate pain - tell your vet about these, different animals have differing pain thresholds. Do not give human pain medications.

CARE:

The night of the surgery your pet should be placed in a warm area of the house and left alone. It will usually appear sedated or "drunk" through the evening and in this state can startle easily. When this happens, the pet can often bite without meaning, too. Keep small children away from pets immediately after surgery. Another reason for keeping the pet in the house and away from other pets or children is because they would not be able to get up or defend themselves quickly. If the neighbour's dog is laying in wait for your cat, he would have a decided advantage over your beloved pet.

Several hours after the pet comes home and appears to be fairly awake, offer SMALL amounts of water and normal food. Never try to feed or give liquids to a pet that is semi-conscious. Many pets will be nauseous after anesthesia and throw up anything that had been given before or immediately following surgery. When this happens it is very easy for the pet to aspirate the material and possibly develop pneumonia or even choke to death.

Keep in mind how you would feel after an anaesthetic. Generally it is best to discourage rough play or

running until the sutures have been removed.

SUTURES:

All skin sutures need to be removed 10 days after surgery and is a free consultation. There is no need to clean the suture line.

If your pet licks or chews at its stitches, it may mean there is a problem, please call us.

The wound should appear clean and dry.

DRAIN TUBES:

Their purpose is to clear infection and tissue fluid from a wound.

They need to stay in place for 3 to 4 days before removal. Ask your vet about management of drains.

MEDICATION:

If required, we will give you any medication needed when you collect your pet. Make sure you understand the instructions on the label.

ALWAYS complete the full course even if your pet seems to be improving!!

Your pet's medication is_____________________________________

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IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS, PLEASE CALL US.                                                     

REVISIT DATE:                                                                                                                           .                                                                                                                                                    

Check List       

Ÿ         Keep  your pet still, warm and quiet after surgery   

Ÿ         Don't give any other medications

Ÿ         If your pet chews at the sutures please call us

Ÿ         Vomiting is common after an anesthetic   

Ÿ         Call if you have any questions