Уход за собакой после стерилизации без вызова осложнений

Даже при успешно проведенной операции, уход за собакой после стерилизации крайне необходим. При неправильном отношении к животному в период его реабилитации, все старания хирурга будут сведены на нет и собаке однозначно понадобиться помощь ветеринара. Хозяин питомца должен иметь в виду те симптомы, которые требуют обращения к специалисту. Немаловажно знать, как ускорить процесс восстановления животного и какое поведение собаки можно считать нормой.

Перевозка собаки после стерилизации

Уход за собакой начинается уже после выхода из ветеринарной клиники. Серьезный наркоз и полостная операция является настоящим стрессом для животного. Чтобы здоровье питомца было в безопасности, на приеме у врача запишите все рекомендации и следуете им четко в соответствии с написанным, не стоит доверять советам знакомых, которые не имеют медицинского образования. Ветеринар прописывает курс по восстановлению животного, согласно конкретно его случая и в индивидуальном порядке.

Собака отпускается после стерилизации только тогда, когда она в состоянии сама стоять на всех четверых лапах и ходить. Однако, это вовсе не означает, что вы можете отправиться домой пешком. Если собака небольшого размера, то можете отнести ее домой на руках, ну а для крупных особей необходимо организовать перевозку на автомобиле. Врач может оставить питомца на ночь в клинике, если она не в состоянии передвигаться самостоятельно или кажется невменяемой, после болеутоляющих средств.

Лучше попросить кого-нибудь из друзей или родственников отправиться за собакой вместе с вами. Часто, хозяева, в силу своего волнения забывают все, о чем говорит им врач. Друг в этом деле станет для вас запасными ушами, которые внимательно выслушают, а главное, запомнят, все, о чем будет говорить специалист. Напарник легко поддержит вам дверь для выхода из клиники, откроет дверь машины и поможет погрузить собаку. Во время перенесенного наркоза, все органы животного начинают работать гораздо медленнее, и она может замерзнуть, даже в летний период. Поэтому лучше перевозить животное в боксе или укрыть ее, положив на сидение машины.

Приехав домой запишите все вопросы, которые у вас могут появиться, чтобы не забыть задать их врачу на следующем приеме. В большинстве клиник предоставляют не только словесные рекомендации, но и записывают все на бумаге, чтобы вы могли четко следовать инструкции. После заданных вопросов и получив на них ответы вы станете максимально подготовленными и будете знать, как ухаживать за собакой после стерилизации.

Первые сутки

По приезду домой, окружите собаку максимум своего внимания. Чтобы питомец не страдал от болевых ощущений в мышцах и общей слабости больше того, что он уже испытывает, положите его на ровную поверхность или матрас и накройте пледом. Лежак собаки не должен быть расположен на сквозняке, но и поставить его возле батареи будет также неразумно. Греть собаку и использовать грелку ни в коем случае нельзя, такой метод может вызвать внутреннее кровотечение. Во сне собака может помочиться, поэтому под нее лучше положить пеленку, и не забудьте ее вовремя менять, чтобы животное не мерзло.

Раз в полчаса собака должна менять свое положение, перекладывайте ее с одного бока на другой. Так вы исключите вероятность онемения конечностей и отека легких. Когда собака будет спать, после наркоза, весь уход заключается лишь в вашем наблюдении за ней. Важными показателями нормального состояния станет ровное дыхание и сердечный ритм. Хорошим признаком считается реакция на любые раздражители. К примеру, если вы пощекочите лапку, животное одернет ее. Если такая реакция отсутствует, это означает, что уровень препарата для введения в состояние наркоза еще достаточно высок и животное проснется не скоро.

Восстановление собаки после стерилизации достаточно тяжелый процесс. Чтобы исключить в этот период возникновения боли в горле животного и рези в глазах, нужно раз в полчаса увлажнять слизистые, с помощью капель «искусственные слезы». Если животное уже реагирует на раздражители, шевелиться и перекладывается с бока на бок, а хирург обработал его веки специальным гелем, то такие меры не понадобятся.

Действия при ухудшении состояния собаки

Большинство хозяев домашних питомцев не знают, как действовать, если после операции состояние питомца начинает ухудшаться. Если вы заметили признаки недомогания, немедленно свяжитесь с врачом и не пытайтесь помочь животному самостоятельно. В редких случаях осложнения после кастрации кобеля общего характера отмечаются в виде отека легких и нарушений сердечно-сосудистой системы. Такая ситуация сопровождается следующими симптомами:

• собака дышит открытым ртом, ее дыхание становится прерывистым, тяжелым и неровным. В груди можно услышать хлюпанье и хрипы;
• температура может подняться или опуститься ниже нормы на 1 градус. Незначительное повышение или понижение температуры на полградуса во время наркоза или в первые несколько суток после операции считается нормой;
• сердечный ритм сбивается, сердце то замирает, то начинает биться слишком часто. Слизистые становятся бледными или приобретают синеватый оттенок. Может появиться мелкая дрожь, но, если в течение часа она не проходит или переходит в судороги, немедленно отправляйтесь к врачу.

Восстановление собаки после операции и выход из состояния наркоза нередко выматывает и самого владельца. Поведение собаки после выхода из наркоза со стороны выглядит очень странно и пугающе. Она врезается в углы при ходьбе, может замирать в одной позе, шатается, плохо реагирует на голос хозяина. Такого поведения пугаться не стоит, ведь оно считается нормой.

Поведение питомца может кардинально поменяться: она становится агрессивной, возможна паника, животное может забиться под кроватью и не подпускать к себе домашних. Когда двигательные функции будут восстановлены, постарайтесь успокоить собаку, сядьте рядом с ней, пусть поспит или прост полежит в состоянии покоя. Если же питомец ни в какую не подпускает к себе никого близко, не настаивайте, закройте все опасные места, куда он может проникнуть и просто наблюдайте за состоянием со стороны.

Любое изменение в поведении или состоянии собаки должны быть вами отмечены. При необходимости звоните врачу и уточняйте волнующие вас моменты. Не стоит стесняться отвлекать врача от работы своими звонками, ведь такие консультации в послеоперационный период, входят в стоимость лечения.

Обработка швов

Беспокойство швов после операции разняться между кобелями и суками. Уход за кобелем после кастрации не требует стольких сил, сколько требует реабилитация суки. Некоторые хирурги сразу прописывают обезболивающие средства, другие только по необходимости.

Прием таких средств обусловлен следующим:

1. владелец знает, что его собака не может переносить боль, об этом следует оповестить специалиста сразу;
2. владелец собаки видит, что период реабилитации усложняет сильная боль. К примеру, во время дефекации собака скулит, передвигается с особой осторожностью и не может делать резких движений.

Применение обезболивающих препаратов способно во-многом ускорить процесс восстановления, тогда собака не будет зубами повреждать шов, а также будет нормально двигаться, не залеживаясь. Многие специалисты сразу назначают курс антибиотиков, чтобы исключить возникновение воспалительного процесса.

Нужно ли обрабатывать шов после его наложения зависит от материала самих швов, способа его наложения и метода обработки после операции. В каждом случае препараты будут назначаться или не назначаться врачом. В случае, когда врач говорит, что обрабатывать шов не нужно, а вы заметили воспаление, припухлость или покраснение этой области, запишитесь на консультацию к ветеринару. После стерилизации шов должен быть сухим, без покраснений, корочек и других новообразований. При нормальном заживлении, внешний вид шва с каждым днем будет становиться все лучше и лучше.

Необходимость попоны

Чтобы шов был защищен от бактерий и повреждений механического характера, собаке потребуется попона. В современных клиниках, попону надевают на собаку сразу после операции. Одного экземпляра будет мало, ведь тонкий материал быстро намокает и грязнится. Бандаж следует менять раз в сутки и не забудьте погладить его перед тем, как наденьте на собаку. При обработке швов снимать попону не стоит, можно лишь развязать пару лент и отодвинуть материал в сторону.

Если собака все время норовит снять попону, чтобы добраться до шва, наденьте на неё Елизаветинский воротник или постоянно следите, чтобы добраться до шва у нее все-таки не получилось. Чтобы шов не разошелся, следите чтобы собака не проводила подвижных игр, не прыгала, лучше отдать предпочтение легким и спокойным пешим прогулкам. Если собаке тяжело подниматься по лестнице, то туалет лучше обустроить дома на первые несколько дней. Необходимо ли снятие швов будет зависеть от шовного материала и способа его наложения. В некоторых случаях снятие швов не требуется, ведь нитки рассосутся и усохнутся самостоятельно. Ветеринар сам скажет вам о том, нужно ли снимать шов и когда это необходимо сделать. В среднем швы снимают через 2 недели, после проведенной операции.

Питание

Соблюдение диеты в период реабилитации является крайне важным аспектом на пути к полному восстановлению четвероногого. После выхода из наркоза первыми возвращаются к нормальной работе сердечно-сосудистая и дыхательная системы, пищеварительная подключается несколько позже. Голодать собака вполне способна 3 суток, без вреда для своего организма. Если вы поторопитесь и накормите собаку раньше положенного срока, есть вероятность вызвать рвоту или еще хуже, спровоцировать развитие пневмонии за счет попадания частичек пищи в легкие, а это крайне опасно для жизни.

Поить собаку можно уже тогда, когда она нормально держится на ногах и может ходить. Если пес еще не отошел от наркоза, то воду заливают за щеку маленькими порциями. Кормить животное следует правильно, чтобы во время дефекации не разошелся шов, то провоцирует наличие запоров. Чтобы избежать таких неприятных ситуаций, кормить пса стоит начинать только тогда, когда полностью исчезнут признаки наркоза.

В первую неделю отдавайте предпочтение консервам, муссам, сухому корму, который предварительно замачивают в воде. Через неделю можно вернуть обычный рацион, но порцию делать на 20% меньше обычной. Выпускается сухой корм для стерилизованных собак, которым следует кормить питомца после его восстановления. Это поможет избежать набора лишнего веса, который часто сопровождает стерилизованных сук.

Последствия стерилизации и кастрации собаки

Как и любая другая операция, стерилизация имеет ряд осложнений, которые могут возникнуть. Обычно такие осложнения сопровождают сук, которые достигли возраста 7 лет.

Собака может начать набирать лишний вес за счет изменения обмена веществ. Чтобы избежать эту проблему, следует сократить каждую порцию приема пищи и пересмотреть рацион. Стерилизованные собаки нередко страдают от недержания мочи. В этом случае важно найти истинную причину. Вполне вероятно, что до операции у собаки были заболевания мочевыводящих путей. Гормональный фон меняется, что приводит к ослаблению мочевого пузыря. Недостаток эстрогенов также может стать причиной возникновения недержания. Недостаток эстрогенов нередко приводит к облысению у сук. Профилактики этой проблемы не существует. Лечением является прием женских гормонов.

Зная все об осложнениях в послеоперационный период, вы исключите вероятность развития серьезного состояния, которое может угрожать жизни животного. Подводя итог, отметим самые распространенные осложнения, которые не должны остаться без вашего внимания:

1. недержание мочи;
2. воспаления швов;
3. разрыв шва;
4. присоединение инфекции;
5. кровотечения внутреннего характера;
6. появление послеоперационной грыжи.

Как ведет себя собака после кастрации и нужна ли она? Животное может быть вялым, у нее не будет аппетита, может проявляться озноб, но не долго. В первое время после наркоза собака не сможет ходить, переворачиваться, пить. Это может вас напугать, но совершенно зря, такое состояние считается нормой. Вам предстоит помогать ей в этом, чтобы не допустить развития осложнений, да и просто ускорить процесс восстановления вашего любимца.

В каких случаях нужен ветеринар

Важно вовремя позвонить ветеринару при возникновении следующих ситуаций:

1. спустя 2 суток после операции собака отказывается принимать пищу и пить. Обычно к этому времени животное уже должно нормально есть и пить, а если этого не происходит, значит его беспокоят болезненные ощущения, не медлите и срочно позвоните врачу;
2. из раны начались выделения. Когда рана заживает, она сухая. Если вы увидели выделяющиеся гной или кровь, немедленно обратитесь к врачу;
3. тошнота и диарея. Часто анестетики могут спровоцировать тошноту или диарею, которая возникает в следствие раздражения желудка. Однако, если собаку тошнит после операции, то стоит обратиться к врачу;
4. отекший живот, вялость и слабость. При изменении фигуры собаки, увеличению слабости без восстановления энергии, живот набухает, без раздумий позвоните своему врачу и договоритесь о приеме.

В случае обнаружения одного из симптомов, которые говорят о том, что собака плохо проходит реабилитационный период и не восстанавливается, позвоните ветеринару и расскажите об этом. Окружите питомца максимальной заботой, следите за его состоянием и не допускайте ухудшения самочувствия. Собака, так же, как и человек тяжело переживает послеоперационный период, поэтому не скупитесь во внимании и средствах, выполняйте все рекомендации врача. После выздоровления собака обязательно отблагодарит вас за старания и уход своей лаской и дружелюбием.

Об авторе: Екатерина Алексеевна Софорова

Ветеринарный врач отделения интенсивной терапии ветеринарного центра «Северное Сияние». Подробнее обо мне читайте в разделе «О нас».90000 Pros, cons of surgical sterilization, neutering options for females 90001 90002 By Brennen McKenzie, MA, MSc, VMD, cVMA 90003 90002 90003 90002 Among the most common surgical procedures in small animal practice are those for sterilization and neutering. The goal of these procedures is both to prevent reproduction and to provide a net health benefit for the patient that may include avoiding the risks of reproduction, reducing the incidence of those disease that are more common in intact animals, and reducing behaviors associated with intact status that can lead to relinquishment.90007 1-2 90008 90003 90002 There are many variations on these procedures, and the specific techniques used by individual veterinarians seem to depend more on tradition, personal habit, and cultural preference than on explicit evaluation of the pros and cons from a scientific perspective. 90007 3 90008 There is, however, research evidence concerning some of these procedures that we can use to make rational decisions about our choice of technique. We also can use this research to inform the recommendations we make to clients.Pet owners increasingly are aware that multiple alternatives exist, and they may come to us with strong opinions or misconceptions about the most appropriate procedure for their pets. 90003 90002 Most procedures are intended to prevent reproduction. Some also involve gonadectomy, which has a complex array of both beneficial and harmful effects that depend on breed, sex, age, timing of surgery, and many other factors. The long-term pros and cons of gonadectomy are controversial, and I have reviewed them in detail elsewhere.90007 2 90008 In brief, there appears to be a net health benefit for most female dogs and cats from neutering, though the details of the risks and benefits and the effect of the timing of neutering are variable. There is much less evidence for a net health benefit in neutering males, though there are other justifications for doing so. Here I will consider the relative advantages and disadvantages of different surgical sterilization and neutering options for females. 90003 90002 Ventral midline ovariohysterectomy (OVH) is considered an effective technique for sterilization and neutering of both dogs and cats with very low complication rates when performed by surgeons that are experienced with this procedure.90007 4-6 90008 There are many minor variations with no research evidence comparing the relative merits of most. 90003 90002 One exception is the flank approach to OVH, which is preferred in some countries for cats and small dogs. There are theoretical advantages and disadvantages to this approach, and research evidence comparing flank and midline approaches is mixed. Some comparisons suggest it’s faster with fewer complications, 90007 7 90008 but other studies find no difference, 90007 8 90008 and some indicate more discomfort associated with it.90007 9-10 90008 Access to both ovaries is more difficult with this approach unless bilateral flank incisions are made, which significantly complicates the procedure, and hysterectomy can be difficult by this method. 90007 11 90008 The flank and midline methods both achieve the goal of gonadectomy and sterilization. 90003 90002 Traditionally, OVH has been preferred in the U.S., while ovariectomy (OVE) is the more common choice in some other countries. 90007 12 90008 Both techniques are equally effective at achieving gonadectomy and preventing mammary carcinoma and pyometra.90007 12-14 90008 Some studies have suggested that OVE is less painful than OVH 90007 15 90008; however, other studies have not identified any difference in postoperative pain or other complications. 90007 10,16 90008 90003 90002 Laparoscopic OVE and OVH have been reported using a variety of equipment and techniques. Comparisons are difficult given the many different approaches, equipment, and assessments used in published studies. In general, the disadvantages of laparoscopic OVE and OVH include the cost of equipment, the need for extensive training and practice to achieve proficiency, and the longer surgical time.90007 17-20 90008 Laparoscopic spay may have the advantage of decreasing postoperative pain, complications, and recovery time, but the literature is inconsistent, and high-quality studies are lacking. 90007 21 90008 90003 90002 With a growing awareness of the potential negative effects of neutering, there has been some increased interest among breeders and pet owners in sterilization procedures that do not involve gonadectomy. For females, two such procedures are hysterectomy (or ovary-sparing spay) and ligation of the fallopian tubes or uterine horns.Both procedures have been described in the literature, 90007 22-23 90008 but neither have been widely adopted. 90003 90002 There are no controlled research studies comparing tubal ligation or hysterectomy to OVE or OVH. While ligation of the fallopian tubes or uterine horns can prevent reproduction, it is highly likely that any risks and benefits associated with the pre 90003.90000 Alternatives to Surgery for Ligament Injuries in Dogs 90001 90002 LAMENESS IN DOGS: OVERVIEW 90003 90004 90005 1. If your dog is limping, bring him to your veterinarian to determine the cause. Chances are your dog has a cruciate injury. 90006 90007 90004 90005 2. Keep a dog with a ligament injury quiet and confined. 90006 90007 90004 90005 3. Understand the risks and benefits of knee surgery for dogs so you can make an informed decision about which direction to take.90006 90007 90004 90005 4. Explore physical therapy and other treatments that strengthen joints. 90006 90007 90004 90005 5. No matter the treatment, speed your dog’s recovery with nutrition, physical therapy, and other support. 90006 90007 90024 90002 Why is My Dog Limping? 90003 90004 Dogs go lame for all kinds of reasons. Arthritis, Lyme disease, paw injuries, muscle sprains, bee stings, interdigital dermatitis, and dislocated kneecaps can make any dog ​​limp. But when an active dog suddenly can not put weight on a hind leg, the most common diagnosis — for more than a million American dogs every year — is a torn cruciate ligament.In 2003 according to the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, cruciate ligament dog surgery costs exceeded $ 1.32 billion, and the price tag keeps rising. 90007 90004 The most common prescription for dog knee injuries is surgery. Unfortunately, operations do not always work and some patients, because of age or other conditions, are not good candidates. In recent years a nonsurgical approach called «conservative management» has helped thousands of dogs recover from ligament injuries, and it is growing in popularity.At the same time, conservative management is not a cure-all. It does not always prevent the need for surgery, it is not necessarily less expensive, and it can require as much time and effort as post-surgical rehabilitation. At its best, conservative management improves the outcome of whatever treatment is needed for full recovery. 90007 90004 «Conservative management consists of any nonsurgical treatment of injuries,» says Faith Rubenstein, who founded an online forum devoted to the subject in 2004, «including physical therapy, chiropractic adjustments, acupuncture, massage, nutrition, the use of a leg brace, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, medicinal herbs, prolotherapy, weight loss for overweight dogs, and other noninvasive treatments.»90007 90004 Rubenstein, who now lives in Austin, Texas, first encountered dog CCL injuries when her 100-pound Briard, Dakota, then six years old, experienced a partial tear of his cranial (anterior) cruciate ligament. «When our veterinarian recommended that we see an orthopedic surgeon,» she says, «I went looking for answers.» An academic researcher who is now a private investigator, Rubenstein discovered the term «conservative management» in a veterinary textbook. 90007 90004 The orthopedic surgeon diagnosed a partial tear in both of Dakota’s knees and recommended immediate TPLO (tibial plateau leveling osteotomy) surgery.In this procedure, the tibia is cut, then rotated and held in place with a metal plate and screws so that after the broken bone heals, weight-bearing exercise stabilizes the knee joint. 90007 90004 «I had misgivings about this method,» she says, «especially because surgeons at the School of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania do not use it. I spoke with Gail Smith, the head of the University’s department of clinical research, and with Amy Kapatkin, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon who was then at Penn.What Dr. Kapatkin said made perfect sense to me. She asked, ‘Why break a bone to fix a ligament?’ My whole interest in conservative management was triggered by my fear of the TPLO. » 90007 90004 The University referred Rubenstein to an orthopedic surgeon who used other methods. He found Dakota to have so few symptoms that he agreed to write a prescription for physical therapy in hopes that it might make surgery of any kind unnecessary. 90007 90004 «Physical therapy and exercise made all the difference,» she says.»Dakota never needed surgery, and neither did his littermate, Aubrey, who tore his cruciate ligament a few months later. Many veterinarians believe that the only effective treatment for these injuries is surgery — either TPLO or another surgery — but that simply is not true. Conservative management is a TPLO surgery alternative that can help most patients, including those who eventually have surgery, and then recover to lead active, happy lives. » 90007 90002 Understanding Ligament Injuries in Dogs 90003 90004 The stifle (knee) connects the femur (thigh bone) and tibia (leg bone) with a patella (kneecap) in front and fabella (a small bean-shaped bone) behind.Cartilage (the medial meniscus and lateral meniscus) cushions the bones, and ligaments hold everything in position. 90007 90004 Two key ligaments, the anterior (front) and posterior (back) cruciate ligaments, cross inside the knee joint. In animals, these ligaments are called cranial and caudal, respectively. The anterior or cranial cruciate ligament prevents the tibia from slipping out of position. 90007 90004 Veterinarians see most ligament patients immediately after their injuries, when symptoms are acute, or weeks or months later, after symptoms become chronic.If not immediately treated, most ligament injuries appear to improve but the knee remains swollen and abnormal wear between bones and meniscal cartilage creates degenerative changes that result in osteophytes (bone spurs), chronic pain, loss of motion, and arthritis. In some patients, osteophytes appear within one to three weeks of a ligament injury. Swelling on the inside of the knee, called a «medial buttress,» indicates the development of arthritis in patients with old injuries. 90007 90004 The main diagnostic tools for ligament injuries are X-rays, which can rule out bone cancer as a cause of leg pain, and a procedure called the «drawer test,» in which the veterinarian holds the femur with one hand and manipulates the tibia with the other.If the tibia can be moved forward, resembling a drawer being opened, the cruciate ligament has been torn or ruptured. 90007 90004 The drawer test is not necessarily conclusive because the tense muscles of a frightened or apprehensive dog can stabilize the knee temporarily. To produce more accurate results in such cases, patients may be sedated before being tested. 90007 90004 In the tibial compression test, which is another way to check for ligament damage, the femur is held steady with one hand while the other flexes the dog’s ankle.A ruptured ligament allows the tibia to move abnormally forward. 90007 90004 «A completely torn CCL in dogs is always a surgical case,» says Stacey Hershman, DVM, of Hastings-on-Hudson, New York, «since otherwise the knee can not function as a hinge joint.» Advocates of conservative management recommend that whenever the tear is partial, nonsurgical techniques be given an eight-week try. If symptoms improve during that time, they say, the odds favor ACL recovery without surgery. If symptoms do not improve, conservative management techniques can be used as pre- and post-operative conditioning and therapy.90007 90002 Which Dogs Are at Highest Risk for Leg Injury? 90003 90004 Any dog ​​can injure a cruciate ligament, but large breeds are most susceptible. According to one study, Neapolitan Mastiffs, Newfoundlands, Akitas, Saint Bernards, Rottweilers, Chesapeake Bay Retrievers, and American Staffordshire Terriers lead the list. Most veterinary clinics have seen ligament injuries in Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, German Shepherd Dogs, and other popular large breeds. 90007 90004 Young, athletic dogs playing hard can turn or step the wrong way and suddenly not be able to walk.Cruciate ligament injuries are unfortunately common in dogs who compete in agility, obedience, fi eld trials, and other active sports. 90007 90004 Some veterinarians report progressive lameness in young Labrador Retrievers, Rottweilers, and other large-breed dogs resulting from a partial rupture of the cranial cruciate ligament. This may not be associated with a speci fi c injury but may instead result from poor sti fl e biomechanics combined with a yet-to-be-de fi ned conformation abnormality. 90007 90004 Older large-breed dogs can develop weakened ligaments that eventually tear, especially in dogs who are overweight.When a weakened ligament is stressed, its rupture can be triggered by activities that are otherwise insigni fi cant, like sitting on cue, stepping over a curb, or jumping off a sofa. 90007 90004 A small dog’s size may not prevent a ligament injury, but smaller dogs usually recover faster. One study that compared dogs six months after their cruciate ligament ruptures found that 85 percent of those weighing less than 30 pounds had regained near normal or improved function while only 19 percent of those weighing more than 30 pounds had regained near normal function.Dogs in both groups needed at least six months to show maximum improvement. 90007 90002 Helping Your Dog After An Injury 90003 90004 If your dog is injured, visit your vet as soon as possible, but be an informed consumer. Many veterinarians consider cruciate ligament surgery necessary, routine, fast, easy, highly effective, and the only treatment that will help. For many dogs this has been the case, but some veterinary research places the cruciate ligament surgery for dogs success rate at well below 50 percent.If surgery is necessary, your investment in conservative management may pay dividends in faster recovery and better overall health. 90007 90004 Canine health and nutrition researcher Mary Straus recommends simple first-aid strategies for dogs with knee injuries. Straus learned about the benefits of such an approach when her dog, Piglet, had surgery for dysplasia on both elbows before her second birthday, followed by surgery for a ruptured cruciate at age three. «First and most importantly,» she says, «exercise must be restricted.No running, no jumping (including on and off furniture), and no stairs. Walk your dog on-leash when going outside to potty. The dog does not necessarily have to be crated, which can restrict movement so much that it increases stiffness and limits flexibility, but should be confined to a small room or ex-pen, or kept on-leash while with the owner. Exercise restriction must be continued for at least six to eight weeks. » 90007 90004 Second, inflammation needs to be controlled. «I would use nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs),» she says.»Inflammation contributes to cartilage degeneration and accelerates the development of arthritis. Do not avoid NSAIDs in the hope that pain will keep your dog from overusing the leg. There are natural anti-inflammatories like bromelain, boswellia, quercitin, and turmeric, and I would use those as well, but they may not be strong enough alone. You could use white willow bark, which is comparable to aspirin, but it should not be combined with other NSAIDs. In addition to anti-inflammatories, I would give glucosamine-type supplements to try to protect the cartilage and slow arthritic changes.It’s questionable how much these help with cruciate injuries, but they do no harm and I would include them. » 90007 90004 Dr. Hershman prescribes Glycoflex, a nutritional supplement that contains freeze-dried Perna canaliculus or New Zealand Green Lipped Mussel. This product is recommended for joint and connective tissue support, for geriatric and working dogs, and as a follow-up to orthopedic surgery. 90007 90004 In addition, she gives subcutaneous Adequan® injections or teaches the owners to do so at home.Adequan Canine (polysulfated glycosaminoglycan) is a prescription, water-based, intramuscular, polysulfated glycosaminoglycan that helps prevent cartilage in the dog’s joint from wearing away. «I give injections twice a week for two weeks,» says Dr. Hershman, «then once a week for maintenance.» 90007 90004 She also recommends Wholistic Canine Complete Joint Mobility, which is a powder containing organic vitamins, minerals, digestive enzymes, hydrolized whitefish, immune-support ingredients, and pharmaceutical-grade glucosamine, chondroitin and MSM (methyl sulfonyl methane), all of which support healing, speed tissue repair, or help alleviate pain and inflammation.90007 90004 Standard Process products for improved ligament health include Ligaplex, which contains organic raw bone, herbs, and minerals, and the veterinary product Canine Musculoskeletal Support, which contains anti-inflammatory herbs, Perna canaliculus, and whole-food ingredients that enhance tissue regeneration and improve joint health. 90007 90004 It is important to keep injured dogs from gaining weight, which can easily happen when their exercise routine is interrupted. «Overweight dogs have a harder time recovering from a cruciate ligament injury,» says Straus, «and they are more at risk for injuring the other knee.I would feed a high-protein, low-carbohydrate, reduced-fat diet. Fat is high in calories and so should be limited, but too little fat will leave the dog feeling hungry all the time. Protein helps with wound healing and also to create and preserve lean muscle, while carbs are more likely to be stored as fat. For those who feed kibble, I would cut back on the amount fed and add fresh, high-protein foods such as eggs, meat, and dairy. For seriously overweight dogs, this is one situation where I might consider using the drug Slentrol to help speed weight loss.»90007 90002 Physical Therapy for Injured Dogs 90003 90004 Faith Rubenstein’s Dakota received physical therapy from Carol Wasmucky, PT, a licensed physical therapist for humans in Herndon, Virginia, who founded Pet Rehab Inc. and works full-time with animals by referral from veterinarians throughout Northern Virginia. 90007 90004 She began Dakota’s treatment by measuring his hind legs, one of which had atrophied and was smaller than the other. «Our goal,» says Rubenstein, «was to have both legs measure the same.Dakota and I worked with a holistic veterinarian, who put him on nutritional and herbal supplements, and we did acupuncture as well. I restricted his activity so he was not allowed to run off-leash for six months, and during that time he had regular physical therapy. Dakota was not a swimming dog but he became one, for swimming was the perfect exercise for him. After six months, both hind legs were the same 17 inches in girth. He was in great shape, his drawer test results improved to nearly normal, and he did not need surgery.»90007 90004 Dogs who are intermittently lame with a partial tear of the cruciate ligament are ideal physical therapy patients, says Wasmucky. In addition to providing weekly or twice-a-week ultrasound, laser, and electrical stimulation treatments, she puts patients on a home strengthening program with range-of-motion and stretching exercises. «Every program is different depending on the dog’s condition,» she says. «The owners are involved every day; I show them what to do. It’s just like working with human injuries; if you want the best results, you have to do your homework.»90007 90004 Wasmucky, who has worked with thousands of canine patients over the past 10 years, encourages anyone whose dog has a partial tear to use physical therapy to build muscle so that even if surgery has to be performed, the dog goes in and comes out in better shape. «This means shorter rehab time,» she says, «and a faster recovery.» 90007 90004 Swimming is such effective exercise for injured dogs that many veterinary clinics have installed swimming pools. «Dogs who can not yet do weight-bearing exercises can start in a pool,» she says, «and as they get stronger, they’re able to progress through the exercise program.I check their progress in weekly appointments and make adjustments as needed. It takes time to heal from ligament injuries and I like to be sure that dogs are completely well before they resume agility or other demanding sports. » 90007 90004 She requires a major commitment from owners. «It’s usually an hour or so every day in twice-a-day sessions,» she says, «and this can go on for months. It’s a big investment of time and energy, and it requires a motivated dog as well as a motivated owner, but it can make a world of difference in mobility and overall health.»For more about canine rehabilitation, see» The Benefits of Canine Rehab & Conditioning, «September 2009. 90007 90002 Prolotherapy for Dogs 90003 90004 Although most veterinary experts agree that there is no way to repair a damaged ligament, one alternative therapy claims to do exactly that. Prolotherapy, also known as proliferative or sclerosing therapy, has been used for over 30 years to treat musculoskeletal pain in humans, including arthritis, sports injuries, and damaged or partially torn ligaments, tendons, and cartilage.90007 90004 The term «prolo» is short for proliferation, as this treatment is said to cause the proliferation (growth or formation) of new tissue in weakened areas. Ligaments have a limited blood supply, which slows healing, but in prolotherapy, injections of dextrose (sugar water) or other benign substances cause localized inflammation that increases the supply of blood and nutrients, stimulating tissue repair. 90007 90004 Health columnist Jane E. Brody described prolotherapy as «injections to kick-start tissue repair» in the August 7, 2007 90110 New York Times 90111, where she wrote that most scientifically designed controlled studies of prolotherapy have shown «a significant improvement in the patients ‘level of pain and ability to move the painful joint.»In studies of human knee injuries, she said, patients with ligament laxity and instability experienced a tightening of those ligaments, including the anterior cruciate ligament (also known as the ACL). Other studies showed a significant improvement in the symptoms of arthritis in the knee one to three years after prolotherapy injections. 90007 90004 In Royal Oak, Michigan, John Simon, DVM, uses prolotherapy to repair damaged cruciate ligaments in dogs. He explains, «Prolotherapy is a way of tightening up loose, unstable, hyper-mobile joints by injecting a ‘sclerosing’ agent in and around the joint.The resulting thickening of the joint capsule and the ligaments surrounding it act like scar tissue and eventually contract with time. The thickening and contraction of the ligaments and joint capsule increase joint stability and relieve joint pain. » 90007 90004 Most canine cruciate ligament patients receive five sessions at three-week intervals. «Although I tell caregivers not to expect any positive results until at least the third treatment,» he says, «I am occasionally surprised to see improvement after just one.Other modalities that I often recommend in conjunction with prolotherapy are soft laser therapy and pulse magnetic therapy. These treatments reduce pain and help the joint recuperate. » 90007 90004 According to Dr. Simon, the best candidates for prolotherapy ligament repair are dogs whose injuries do not involve torn meniscal cartilage in the joint. During the past three years, he has treated 35 dogs for cruciate ligament problems and estimates that 80 percent experienced significant improvement.90007 90002 Getting Your Dog A Leg Brace 90003 90004 Debbie Kazsimer, who lives in Pennsylvania, knows a lot about cruciate ligaments. Trouble, her Shepherd / Husky mix, had TPLO surgeries at ages six and seven, and her Shepherd / Malamute mix, Fly, had a TPLO when she was two. 90007 90004 In 2005, the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association published the case of a German Shepherd Dog who developed bone cancer after her implant corroded. Two years later, Trouble was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, and when his leg was amputated, its metal implant was found to be corroded.The biopsy report linked the cancer to his 2004 TPLO surgery. 90007 90004 As a precaution, Kazsimer had Fly’s implant removed. «But by then five years had passed and it was too late,» she says. «The damage was already done.» Within months, both dogs died of osteosarcoma. 90007 90004 Four weeks after Fly’s death, Kazsimer’s six-year-old 100-pound Shiloh Shepherd, Kimber, tore a cruciate ligament. By then, Kazsimer had learned about conservative management and knew she did not want to put another dog through a TPLO surgery.Because of her experiences with Fly and Trouble, she was familiar with range-of-motion and physical therapy exercises, and she studied massage with her husband, Ken, an Integrated Touch Therapy canine massage therapist. She spent an hour or two daily on Kimber’s rehabilitation. 90007 90004 «I thought a leg brace would be a big help to her,» she says, «but my veterinarian refused to fit her for one because he was convinced it would not work. So my husband and son helped me to cast her leg with a casting kit from Orthopets.The brace supports the knee externally, just as surgery supports it internally. » 90007 90004 Kimber went from walking on three legs to walking on four, then swimming, then finally bearing full weight on her leg. Eight months after her injury, Kimber’s regimen of supplements, physical therapy, massage, swimming, and wearing the brace have enabled her to recover well without surgery. «She runs around like a wild girl!» says Kazsimer, who has posted videos of Kimber online, where you can see her running, swimming, and playing with and without her brace on.»It’s wonderful,» she says. «Kimber is able to do everything she did before she got hurt.» 90007 90002 Holistic Therapies and Home Treatment for a Dog’s Torn ACL 90003 90004 The most popular «hands-on» treatments for injured dogs include acupuncture, acupressure, chiropractic, and massage. 90007 90004 Dr. Hershman, a certified veterinary acupuncturist, treats patients with acupuncture to alleviate pain and enhance healing of the torn ligament. «I do this once or twice per week for the first two weeks,» she says, «depending on the dog’s level of pain, then once a week for five to six weeks, then once every two weeks, and finally once a month.When the dog is weight-bearing and in less pain, I stop. » Dr. Hershman is also a certified veterinary homeopath who prescribes homeopathic remedies according to the patient’s symptoms. 90007 90004 In the article «Post-op Acupressure» (August 2006), Nancy Zidonis and Amy Snow describe how stimulating specific acupressure points with a thumb or fingertip can help with pain management, clear the effects of anesthesia, minimize the building of scar tissue, and reduce swelling. Acupressure can be learned at home and applied whenever needed.90007 90004 Veterinary chiropractors help speed the healing of injuries and surgeries by making adjustments that improve skeletal alignment and musculoskeletal function. (See «Chiropractors for Canines,» March 2008.) Chiropractic adjustments help restore normal nerve activity by gently moving bones, ligaments, and tendons back into alignment, and when ligaments are injured, adjustments help realign the body to improve balance and speed healing. 90007 90004 Canine massage therapists used to be unusual, but now they play an important role in maintaining and improving our dogs ‘health.Efflurage, passive touch, kneading techniques, and stroking increase circulation, release muscle tension, reduce pain and soreness, relieve stress, and accelerate the repair process. Massage books and how-to videos make it easy for caregivers to apply these same techniques at home. 90007 90002 Online Support for Injured Dogs 90003 90004 Thanks to the Internet, anyone whose dog suffers a cruciate ligament injury can find a wealth of information about canine anatomy, surgical options, and alternatives to cruciate ligament dog surgery online.90007 90004 The conservative management forum that Faith Rubenstein founded five years ago now has more than 2,000 members around the world. Paola Ferraris, who lives in Italy, is one of its moderators. «What I would like to stress is that conservative management is not an easy (and often not cheap) alternative to surgery,» says Ferraris. «Successful conservative management requires just as much commitment as post-op care. It’s tough love and careful management. Your work is basically the same as rehabbing a dog who has had surgery; in fact, a number of our members have had surgery done on their dogs and use the list for pre-op and post-op support.»90007 90004 When her own dog suffered an ACL injury, Ferraris had to make decisions with little information. «The best way to discuss treatment with your veterinarian is when you understand the available options and their pros and cons,» she says. «I had to educate myself by spending nights doing research online, after the fact. I would have appreciated having more available information, which is what we now offer. » 90007 90004 Co-moderator Ansley Newton of Pownal, Maine, became interested in conservative management when her chocolate Lab, Dooley, injured his second knee.»The first knee had TPLO surgery,» she says, «so I was excited to try conservative management with the second knee. 90007 90004 Unfortunately after four months he did not get better and I chose to have a traditional surgery, which was very successful for this 90-pound dog. Then one day my large chocolate Lab, Nutmeg, came inside with that familiar limp. I again decided to try conservative management along with a knee brace, acupuncture, massage, swimming, and some other supportive techniques. Within six months she was back to normal with very little arthritis.90007 90004 «After three ligament injuries, I thought I was done. But no, two years later Nutmeg came in limping again. I again went the conservative management route and things were going fine until the second month when Nutmeg had an oops moment. She was limping again, so I decided to do surgery but had to postpone it for a couple of months because I tore my own anterior cruciate ligament and damaged my meniscus at the same time! 90007 90004 «So here I was running a farm by myself on crutches and wearing a knee brace with a dog in a knee brace.What a sight we both were. I wish I had taken a picture. We were forced to stay with conservative management because there was no one to take care of the farm and I could not drive Nutmeg to get her surgery. We limped through several months together and lo and behold, we both healed. Nutmeg was good to go in six months and it took me closer to 10. Nutmeg recently passed away from lymphoma. She was 14 years old and despite those two ligament injuries, her legs were still fine. » 90007 90002 The Surgical Options for Torn ACLs in Dogs 90003 90004 While it is not possible to repair canine ligaments surgically, lateral suture stabilization, or LSS techniques, can stabilize knee joints so that they function well.90007 90004 In the extracapsular repair procedure, tom or partially torn ligament tissue and bone spurs are removed along with the damaged portion of the meniscus. Through a hole drilled in the front of the tibia, a large, strong suture is passed around the fabella behind the knee, which tightens the joint and replaces the cruciate ligament. 90007 90004 The intracapsular repair method, which is no longer popular in the United States but still widely used in the United Kingdom, replaces the cruciate ligament with a strip of connective tissue after the damaged meniscus and ligament fragments are removed.This «new ligament» is sewn into place or attached to an implant. 90007 90004 A ligament repair technique called the Tightrope procedure utilizes a fi ber tape suture material developed for human ankle and shoulder reconstruction. This material 90170 replaces the damaged cruciate ligament and stabilizes the sti fl e joint. 90007 90004 Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy, or TPLO surgery, involves breaking and resetting the tibia. The meniscus cartilage is removed and, if badly damaged, the remains of the cruciate ligament may be removed as well.The repositioned bone is held in place with a metal plate and screws. This procedure treats an estimated 50 percent of all cruciate ligament injuries in the US. and its popularity helped double the number of American veterinary surgeons in a single decade (1995-2005). TPLO surgery requires a specialist and typically costs twice as much as extracapsular repair. 90007 90004 Tibial Tuberosity Advancement, or TTA, which was developed in 2002 at the University of Zurich, repositions the top of the tibia by separating and then anchoring it with titanium or steel implants.Like TPLO surgery, TTA requires special equipment and expertise. 90007 90004 None of these procedures work for every patient and all carry risks associated with the use of general anesthetics, post-operative infections, and other complications. The TPLO and TTA are most expensive and most invasive. 90007 90004 Which surgical method is best? Every procedure has its advocates and many veterinary surgeons claim high success rates, but the results of research studies can be sobering. In 90170 2005, the 90110 Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 90111 published a study * comparing the results of lateral suture stabilization (LSS), intracapsular stabilization (ICS), 90170 and TPLO surgery on 131 Labrador Retrievers with ruptured cranial cruciate ligaments and injury to the medial meniscus.Limb function was measured before surgery and again two and six months after. Treated dogs were also compared to 17 clinically normal Labrador Retrievers. Compared with the clinically normal dogs, only 14.9 percent of the LSS-treated dogs, 15 percent of ICS-treated dogs, and 10.9 percent of TPLO-treated dogs had normal limb function. Overall improvement was seen in only 15 percent of dogs treated with ICS, 34 percent of those treated with TPLO, and 40 percent of those treated with LSS. 90007 90004 * «Effect of surgical technique on limb function after surgery for rupture of the cranial cruciate ligament in dogs,» by Michael G.Conzemius, DVM, PhD, DVACS, et al. 90110 Journal of 90111 90170 90110 the American Veterinary Medical Association 90111, January 15, 2005, Vol. 226, No. 2, p. 232-236. 90007 90004 90110 CJ Puotinen is a long-time contributor to WDJ and author of 90111 The Encyclopedia of Natural Pet Care 90110 and 90111 Natural Remedies for Dogs and Cats. 90007 .90000 Dog Owner’s Guide: Early sterilization surgery 90001 Dog Owner’s Guide: Early sterilization surgery 90002 90003 90004 90005 90006 90007 90008 90009 A sure-fire way to prevent unwanted litters? 90010 90011 90012 Early sterilization surgery is a sure-fire way to prevent unwanted litters 90013 90012 The only 100 percent accurate, completely foolproof method of avoiding unwanted litters is to spay or neuter your pet. 90013 90012 The fact that a dog is purebred or registered or has papers does not make it a worthy candidate for breeding.90013 90012 As far as we know, dogs do not miss the ability to procreate; theres no biological clock ticking away, telling Muffy she is missing the joys of motherhood or reminding Rambo he needs a son to carry on his name. 90013 90012 A spayed bitch doesnt get cancer of the reproductive tract or drip blood on the floor during estrous periods. A neutered male doesnt get cancer of the reproductive tract and is more likely to stay at home instead of wandering in search of a lady friend. 90013 90012 Trouble is, there are many misconceptions about canine reproduction, including the age at which surgery can be done.90013 90012 Most owners and many veterinarians prefer to wait until the dog or bitch is six-to-eight months old, but this may be too late to prevent a litter. However, there is an answer. Early spay and neuter protocols are available for puppies and kittens, protocols that make it easy for shelters to make sure adopted dogs are never accidentally bred and for breeders to prevent litters produced by puppies sold as pets. These surgeries can be done on puppies as young as six weeks old. 90013 90011 90009 Massachusetts SPCA 90010 90012 Early spay and neuter is routinely used at the Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.MSPCA considers veterinarians the key to this still-controversial procedure. According to MSPCA vice president Dr. Peter Theran, veterinarians can 90013 90031 90032 work with humane societies and shelters to increase early sterilization of adoptable puppies and kittens; 90033 90032 work with breeders to spay and neuter pet puppies before sale; and 90033 90032 recommend sterilization of pet puppies following the final puppy vaccination at four months of age. 90033 90038 90012 MSPCA has produced a video tape to describe the surgical protocol and show how quickly the puppies and kittens recover.90013 90012 Puppies considered for early sterilization must be healthy so that the surgery does not stress them unduly. On the day of the surgery, they are examined and then weighed so that anesthesia doses can be calculated. Puppies can suffer from hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) or loss of body heat (hypothermia) during surgery and recovery, so speed is of the essence in the procedure. 90013 90012 Male puppies get an injection of sedative and pain killer that puts them to sleep within seconds.Then a front leg is shaved, an intravenous catheter inserted, and anesthesia administered. The surgery is brief; the scrotal sack is cut, the testicle exteriorized, the blood vessels clamped with a hemostatic clip, and the process is repeated on the second testicle. The clips are made of non-reactive material and are left in place. Incisions are sutured so that no stitches appear on the surface for the dog to remove by chewing or licking. 90013 90012 After surgery, the anesthesia is reversed and the pups are quickly on their feet.An hour later, they get a light meal. 90013 90012 Female puppies are prepared for surgery just as the males are, but instead of intravenous anesthesia, they receive gas anesthesia through a tracheal tube and have both heart rate and respirations monitored. Pediatric tissues are fragile and organs are tiny, so care is taken when making the incision into the abdominal cavity and probing with fingers for the uterus and ovaries. Both horns of the uterus and both ovaries must be found and removed and the ends clamped with hemostatic clamps to prevent bleeding.90013 90012 The incision is closed without external sutures and the anesthesia reversed; the puppy is up within minutes and eating within an hour of revival. 90013 90011 90009 Side effects 90010 90012 Early spay and neuter is gaining acceptance as a tool for preventing unwanted litters. A study reported in Veterinary Medicine in August 1995 compared puppies sterilized at about eight weeks of age with littermates spayed or neutered at seven months and found that the younger puppies recovered more quickly from the surgery than the adolescents but by 18 months of age had slightly longer radii (front leg bones).However, since nearly half of the 142 puppies entered in the study at the Humane Society of Austin and Travis County in Austin, Texas, did not return for the 18-month evaluation, the data is not conclusive. 90013 90012 There has been some concern that early sterilization of female puppies could result in incontinence when the pup ages, but there is no evidence that the problem is worse in bitches spayed at eight weeks than in those spayed later. 90013 90011 90009 Resources 90010 90012 Information for this article came from: 90013 90063 90032 90065 Early Spay / Neuter 90066, a video tape from the Massachusetts SPCA 90033 90032 90065 A case for neutering pups and kittens at two months of age 90066 by Leo L.Lieberman DVM, a special commentary in the 90071 Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 90072, Volume 191, No. 5: September 1, 1987. 90033 90032 90065 Early spay and neutering helps solve overpopulation problem 90066 by Greg A. Lewis DVM, in 90071 Veterinary Forum 90072, March 1993. 90033 90032 90065 Should dogs in animal shelters be neutered early? 90066 a peer-reviewed article by Walter E. Crenshaw DVM and Craig N. Carter MS, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVPM in 90071 Veterinary Medicine 90072, August 1995.90033 90086 90087 Norma Bennett Woolf 90088 90011 90012 This page is a part of the Dog Owner’s Guide internet website and is copyright 2019 by Canis Major Publications. You may print or download this material for non-commercial personal or school educational use. All other rights reserved. If you, your organization or business would like to reprint our articles in a newsletter or distribute them free of charge as an educational handout please see our reprint policy.90013 90011 90011 90011 90095 Contact us 90088 90087 90088 .90000 Caring for Your Cat or Dog After Surgery 90001 90002 Once your pet is out of the operating room and on his way home, it’s up to you to help him feel more comfortable, so the healing process can begin. Here, what you need to know. 90003 90002 When your veterinarian releases your pet from the hospital, you’ll likely receive a long list of do’s and don’ts, potential problems to look for and supplies you might need. While all of this information can be a bit overwhelming, your veterinarian and members of his staff are there to help you make it through this sometimes-difficult time.90003 90002 Exactly how long your pet will be in the hospital depends on what type of procedure he has undergone, but if you want to see your four-legged friend, ask your veterinarian for permission. Keep in mind that the period immediately following surgery is when most complications occur, which makes it especially important to follow your veterinarian’s recommendations for rehabilitation and recovery. In some cases, doing so can mean the difference between life and death for your pet. 90003 90008 Before You Leave 90009 90002 When your pet is ready to be discharged from the hospital, you’ll be given instructions for at-home care.Make sure that you understand what is expected of you, and if you have questions, ask if you can review them with a veterinary technician. Ask your veterinarian or technician to show you the best way to lift or support your pet when it is required. 90003 90002 If you do not think you’ll be able to carry out a particular part of your pet’s at-home care, ask if your veterinarian can provide any outpatient support. You’ll likely be told when to return for a follow-up examination or have sutures removed; it’s a good idea to make the appointment at this time.Also smart: Ask about your veterinarian’s procedures for after-hours help in case you do encounter a problem. 90003 90008 We’re Home! Now What? 90009 90002 Your pet may still feel the effects of anesthesia several hours after the procedure, so he may be unsteady on his feet. If that’s the case, you may want to keep him in a quiet and contained place at first. And though your pet might want to return to his or her regular routine, you need to ensure that he gets adequate rest. 90003 90002 Pets recovering from surgery should only be allowed outdoors to relieve themselves, but be aware that some pets may need more frequent bathroom breaks than usual, especially if they were given fluids during surgery or hospitalization.When taking your pet outdoors, make sure that he’s urinating and defecating as expected, and keep him on a leash at all times. 90003 90002 If your pet is receiving medication, ensure that he receives the proper doses that your veterinarian prescribed. And since certain drugs-especially painkillers-can slow his reflexes, it’s smart to restrict your pet’s activity (keeping him from stairs and slippery floors, for example) to prevent injury. 90003 90002 Supervise your pet’s eating and drinking, following all instructions for special nutritional requirements.Until he’s back to normal, provide food and water in small amounts. 90003 90002 Sometimes, veterinarians recommend «crate rest» -keeping your pet in an appropriately sized crate to restrict activity. This can be difficult for both you and your pet if they are not already accustomed to being in a crate. But if your veterinarian has advised you to keep your pet in a crate, it’s vitally important to do so, even if your pet is unhappy or seems to be healing. To make this trying time easier for your pet, keep him occupied with plenty of toys and an occasional low-calorie treat.You may also want to turn on a radio or television for company, or pamper him with daily grooming, which can be a welcome distraction. Also smart: Keep your pet entertained by placing the crate in a high-traffic area where he can watch the household’s activity, unless he is easily agitated (if that’s the case, it may be a better idea to keep the crate in a quiet room ). 90003 90002 If your cat has been confined to crate rest, a large dog crate with a small litter pan inside may provide adequate containment-just be sure to cover the slippery plastic floor with an inexpensive nonslip rug.90003 90008 Monitoring Surgical Sites 90009 90002 Some swelling is normal immediately after surgery, but watch carefully for any signs of oozing, odors, heat, pain, excessive bruising, or redness. If something does not look right, call your veterinarian immediately. And do not allow your pet to scratch or chew at the sutures or bandage. If he does, an Elizabethan collar-also known as an «e» collar-may be necessary to prevent your pet from chewing the wound. 90003 90008 Recovery Times 90009 90002 Typically, full recovery from an extensive orthopedic surgery, such as total hip replacement, takes at least 2 to 3 months, though some dogs require 6 months of careful monitoring and rehabilitation before they reach optimal recovery.Less-invasive surgeries, such as neutering or ovariohysterectomy (spaying), may require only a matter of days or weeks for recovery. 90003 90008 Follow Up 90009 90002 It’s critical to keep all recommended follow-up appointments so that your veterinarian can monitor your pet’s progress. If sutures were used, your veterinarian may need to remove them. If a cast was placed, your veterinarian will want to check it periodically and eventually remove it. Radiographs ( «x-rays») or other tests may be scheduled to assess healing.90003 90002 Your veterinarian may also prescribe physical therapy, including massage and hydrotherapy, which can be helpful to your pet’s recovery. 90003 90002 90043 90044 This article has been reviewed by a Veterinarian. 90045 90046 90003.