DOG
SURGERY &
POST-OPERATIVE
CARE
Navigating the intricacies of dog surgery can be a daunting task for pet owners. At Vet At Your Door, we understand the importance of both pre-operative and post-operative care in ensuring the safety and comfort of your pet.
While we don't perform surgeries ourselves, our role is crucial in guiding you through the process. We establish connections with local practices for surgical needs, ensuring our clients don't pay an exam fee at these practices.
Our pre-operative services include discussing the benefits and requirements of surgery, as well as conducting essential lab work to ensure anesthesia safety. Post-surgery, we offer comprehensive care including surgical site rechecks, improvement assessment, and supportive treatments like pain management and cold laser therapy.
Whether it's a surgery we've referred or one at a practice of your choice, our commitment remains the same - to provide the best possible care for your furry family member.
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Here are some questions that we hear from clients about dog surgery.
What Type of Anesthesia Is Used for Dog Surgery?
Anesthesia type depends on the surgery and the vet's preference. Minor surgeries might use injectable sedation, while more significant surgeries often involve a combination of gas anesthesia and local nerve blocks. At Vet At Your Door, we discuss anesthesia options with you during pre-operative consultations, prioritizing your pet’s safety and comfort.
What Is the Typical Recovery Time After Dog Surgery?
Recovery time varies depending on the dog's health, age, and surgery type. While minor surgeries may require only a few days for recovery, more invasive procedures could take weeks. Our team provides post-operative care, including rechecking the surgical site and assessing improvement, to ensure a smooth recovery.
Will My Dog Need to Wear the Cone of Shame?
Often, dogs must wear an Elizabethan collar to prevent disturbing the healing process. We offer advice on how to best use these collars and can suggest comfortable alternatives to ensure your dog’s recovery is as stress-free as possible.
Will My Dog Need Rehab After Surgery?
Post-surgery rehabilitation can expedite recovery, especially after orthopedic or spinal surgeries. While we don't perform surgeries, our post-operative care includes pain management and therapies like cold laser treatment to aid in your dog’s rehabilitation.
How Can I Use Nutrition to Support My Dog Post-Surgery?
Proper nutrition is crucial for recovery. We can advise on special therapeutic foods and dietary adjustments to support your dog’s healing process.
Is it Normal for My Dog to Have a Reduced Appetite Post-Surgery?
It’s common for dogs to eat less following surgery due to medication, pain, or stress. We monitor your pet’s eating habits in our post-operative care and provide guidance on dietary adjustments if needed.
Is it Normal for My Dog to Vomit After Surgery?
Vomiting is not typical and could indicate complications. We advise on monitoring and provide necessary support if such issues arise after the surgery.
What Do I Do if My Dog's Stitches Are Coming Out?
If stitches become loose or undone, it’s essential to consult with us immediately. We offer post-operative check-ups to ensure proper healing and address any concerns with the surgical site.
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Is it Bad for My Dog to Lick the Incision Site?
Licking can lead to infection and complications. We recommend using an Elizabethan collar and provide instructions on how to manage your dog’s recovery environment to prevent this.
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What Are the Signs of Infection After Surgery?
Infection signs include lethargy, fever, refusal to eat, or redness and warmth at the incision site. Our team is skilled in identifying and treating post-surgical infections, ensuring a safe recovery for your pet.
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At Vet At Your Door, we are dedicated to supporting you and your pet through the surgical process. While we don’t perform the surgeries ourselves, our role in pre-operative planning and post-operative care is integral to your pet’s health and comfort. For any concerns or questions, feel free to call us at (207) 536-8387, email us at info@vetatyourdoor.com, or fill out our online form to request an appointment. Our compassionate and professional approach, coupled with our Fear Free Certified care, ensures your pet receives the best possible support before, during, and after surgery.