Your dog has had a general anaesthesia and major surgery today. Please read the following instructions carefully to help ensure a healthy recovery.
Your dog must be confined indoors during the night of the surgery because your dog is still sleepy.
The dog should be kept quiet for a few days depending on type of surgery. Dogs must be walked on a leash.
If your dog (bitch) was in heat she MUST be kept away from males for at least 14 days. Serious damage to the reproductive tract may occur if a male tries to mate, which will result in death!
Please check the incision site twice daily. There should not be any drainage. Redness and swelling should be minimal.
Do NOT allow your dog to lick or chew at the incision site. If this occurs, an Elizabethan collar must be used to prevent any further licking or chewing (please seek advise from the vet/nurse if this occurs). As the wound heals, there will be a firm lump under the incision as the absorbable sutures break down.
Appetite should return gradually within 24 hours of surgery. No food should be given on the night of the surgery, only water. Slight vomiting may occur on the day after surgery. This is normal but if it persists for more then 12 hours, please contact us immediately. Dogs may have a slight cough for a few days after surgery.
Stitches are to be removed at least 7 days after surgery by appointment. Some wounds are left longer depending on type of surgery.
If you have any questions or concerns related to the surgery, please do not hesitate to contact the hospital at 042 9339648. If there is an emergency after hours, please contact 087 9522222.