Surgery rehab for dogs often includes pain management and the gradual reintroduction of physical activity, but there are other essential factors to consider, too.
Recovering from an operation can be tough, but facilitating recovery for your canine companion can be even harder. Unrestricted, many dogs will begin to resume their usual level of physical activity whenever they feel better, which can set back recovery and cause significant damage if it is done too soon. Surgery rehab for dogs often includes pain management and the gradual reintroduction of physical activity, but managing outside stimuli and keeping your companion calm is also critical.
Know Your Companion’s Behavioral Triggers
Keeping your fur-baby calm and relaxed during recovery can be more challenging than you might think. Being familiar with your companion’s behavioral triggers and minimizing them during daily life can help you keep your canine calm, decreasing their risk of torn stitches and overuse injuries. If your fur-baby starts barking whenever someone knocks or rings the doorbell, consider putting a sign on the door requesting that people call instead. If your family contains small children who tend to energize or rile up your companion, create a recovery suite that is off-limits without supervision. If your dog gets agitated when people or other dogs walk by your windows, you may want to draw the blinds. Take your canine’s specific triggers into account and do your best to limit their presence during recovery.
Limit Unnecessary Activity and Excitement
Another way to keep your companion calm is to speak in a slow, even tone of voice. Many canines take behavioral cues from their guardians, sensing their excitement and responding in kind. Engage in play (as directed by your veterinary team!) that is low-energy and reduce stress in situations like mealtimes and going for walks or toileting. If your recovering canine loves to play rough with the other dogs in your house, you may consider separating them during recovery. However, some companions find isolation to be incredibly distressing. The conditions that facilitate your fur-baby’s recovery are highly personal and will be dependent on their personality, the other companions and people in your home, and the operation they have had.
Provide Intellectual Stimulation and Surgery Rehab for Dogs
Finally, be sure to provide appropriate stimulation and activity for your companion. Managing outside stimuli and keeping agitation and activity to a minimum can be crucial to recovery, but the lack of stimulation can be depressing for your canine. Surgery rehab for dogs can be stressful and isolating, so be sure to engage with your companion and provide safe alternatives for exercise and play. Your veterinary care team may have recommendations for surgery rehab, and many guardians find that activities like nose games, puzzle toys, and guided stretches can be incredibly beneficial.
Trust Maryland Veterinary Surgical Services With Your Companion’s Health
Your companion’s health is important, and the team at MVSS is ready to provide the best care possible for your furry family. We are dedicated to combining comprehensive exams and assessments with informative and honest discussions of your companion’s care. Once we have worked with you to decide on the best course of action for your dog, our professionals will use their surgical expertise to work towards the goal of giving your companion an active and pain-free life. We are proud to serve loyal companions in Catonsville and Baltimore. To learn more about our services, give us a call at 410-788-4088 or visit us online. For more information and tips for pet health, follow us on Facebook and Pinterest.