Tips To Help Your Dog Recover After Getting Spayed Or Neutered

It's pretty common these days for dogs to get spayed or neutered in order to help control the population and avoid the unwanted arrival of additional pets. But as common as the idea of the procedure may be to you, for your dog it will likely be the most traumatic experience it's encountered in its young life. If you are about to take your dog to a spay and neuter veterinarian, here are 3 tips to keep in mind to help keep your family pet comfortable in the aftermath of the procedure.

Keep It On The Floor And Secured

As the anesthesia wears off, your pooch is going to be feeling a little woozy. Don't put your pet up on the couch or on the bed with you. One bad stumble and it will likely be right back on the floor, possibly in even more pain. Consider putting up a gate by any stairs in your house like you would for a small child to prevent the dog from even attempting to go up and down the stairs.

Keep Your Dog Away From Kids And Other Pets

Even if your dog is naturally very sweet, the aftermath of a spay or neuter operation can leave it in a much different mood. If you have young children in the house, instruct them that it is very important to stay away from the animal. If you have more than one pet at home, you will also want to take steps to ensure that your pet's wound is not reachable by another dog or cat, as it might get curious and lick the affected area.

Keep The Dog Hydrated

A dog fighting off anesthesia will not be able to monitor its body temperature or thirst level properly. Encourage it to drink water even if its not thirsty. Keep the temperature in the room warm but not too hot. Using a blanket to wrap your dog if needed. When the dog does go to drink water watch closely, as you don't want them becoming woozy over the water bowl. 

The aftermath of a spay or neuter operation will likely leave your dog confused and feeling irritable. Take steps to ensure your pet's safety by keeping it on the floor and away from the stairs. Make sure your kids and other animals do not bother the pet. Monitor the temperature in the room and your pet's water intake to make sure it is staying properly hydrated. For more advice, contact your local spay and neuter veterinarian for assistance at hospitals like Haverford Animal Hospital.

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