How To Help Your Dog Recover After Knee Surgery
A torn ligament in the knee can slow your dog down, especially if part of his recovery included pet surgery. Surgery for a dog can be a big ordeal, as the recovery period can be hard on your furry buddy. He's not going to understand why he can't run and jump like he used to. It's up to you to help make sure your pal stays calm so as to not re-damage his knee. See below for some helpful tips to use after your fur baby comes home from surgery.
Prepare Your House
Before you bring your pal home with you, you should have a plan in place where he will be staying in order to get the rest he needs. This means either confining him to a specific area of the house (or one single room), assembling a crate for him to use, or gating off part of your home. Either of these is fine, just be sure you have a plan in place before you bring your pup home with you.
Use The Cone
Your veterinarian may have suggested keeping the cone on your dog to prevent him from licking or biting at his wound and bandages. Be sure to keep this cone on your dog. You may feel compelled to take it off when your dog gives you those sad eyes, but it's what is best for him.
Avoid Stairs And Furniture
If your dog usually sleeps upstairs, you'll need to crate him at night, as he shouldn't be climbing up any stairs at all. If he sleeps on any piece of furniture in your home, you'll need to avoid this as well. Figure out a different way to take him outside for potty time if you have stairs leading out of your home, or even make a doggy ramp for him. Jumping puts a lot of stress on your dog's legs, so it's important to keep him from jumping at all.
Give Him Love And Attention
Just because he is injured doesn't mean he isn't the same dog he once was. Make sure your dog understands this by giving him extra love and attention. When he's able to take walks again, take him for walks, just keep them short at first. Your dog will appreciate the attention.
Follow Veterinarian Instructions
Follow the instructions given by your veterinarian. Don't try to exercise your pet before he's actually ready. The veterinarian will tell you when you can begin engaging your dog in other activities. You don't want to do too much too soon and injure your pet further. Additionally, clean bandages as needed to prevent infection at the wound and give medications as instructed.
Following the advice of your dog's veterinarian will help ensure a full recovery. Be sure to prepare your home beforehand and give your pet love and attention so he knows that he's still very much loved.