If your dog is going to have surgery, it's important to take steps to prepare your dog for this often stressful experience. Good preparation can help reduce your pet's anxiety and minimize post-operative complications.
Talk to your vet
The first step in preparing your dog for surgery is talking to your veterinarian. It should explain to you the surgery process and the potential risks associated with the operation, as well as the post-operative care that will be required. Be sure to ask any questions you may have and to discuss alternative treatment options, if they exist.
Reduce your dog's stress
Stress can have negative effects on your dog's immune system, which can slow the healing process and increase the risk of post-operative complications. To reduce your dog's stress, be sure to give him a pleasant time before surgery, by offering him attention and affection.
Prepare a comfortable space for recovery
Your dog will needa comfortable and safe place to recover after surgery. Make sure you have a quiet, warm space for your dog, with a cozy bed and blankets to keep them comfortable away from all the hustle and bustle.
Pack post-operative care supplies
It is important to prepare for your dog's post-operative care in advance. Plan to have all the necessary supplies, such as prescribed medications, cold and hot packs, bandages, bandages, bandages, protective collars, and any other equipment recommended by your veterinarian.
Follow your veterinarian's instructions
Your veterinarian will give you detailed instructions on how to prepare your dog for surgery and on post-operative care at home. Be sure to follow these instructions carefully, by ensuring that medications are administered at the right time and by following diet and physical activity guidelines.
Make sure your dog is fully fasted
It is important for dogs to fast before surgery to avoid the risk of vomiting and inhaling food into the lungs during anesthesia. Specific fasting instructions may vary depending on the surgical procedure and the veterinarian, but in general, dogs should be fasted for 8 to 12 hours prior to surgery.
To prepare multiple dogs for surgery, it is important to follow each dog's fasting instructions individually. It can be helpful to put dogs in separate rooms to prevent them from stealing food or water from each other, which can compromise their fast.
If you have questions about preparing your dogs for surgery, it's important to talk to your veterinarian. Your veterinarian will be able to give you specific instructions on how to fast your dogs prior to surgery, as well as how to manage multiple dogs as part of this process.
