Post-Operative Care for Canine Thoracoabdominal Surgery62

Thoracoabdominal surgery, which involves operating on the chest and abdomen of a dog, is a major surgical procedure that requires extensive post-operative care to ensure the animal's recovery and well-being.

Monitoring Vital Signs

In the immediate post-operative period, the dog's vital signs, including heart rate, respiratory rate, temperature, and blood pressure, should be closely monitored. Any significant changes from normal values should be reported to the veterinarian immediately.

Respiratory Care

After thoracoabdominal surgery, the dog's respiratory function may be compromised due to the use of anesthesia and the effects of the surgery itself. Oxygen therapy may be necessary to support the animal's breathing. Additionally, the dog should be kept in a quiet and comfortable environment with minimal disturbances.

Pain Management

Thoracoabdominal surgery can be painful, so it is essential to provide the dog with adequate pain medication. The veterinarian will prescribe appropriate pain relievers and antibiotics to manage pain and prevent infection.

Feeding and Nutrition

The dog may be reluctant to eat immediately after surgery due to pain or nausea. However, it is important to provide small amounts of bland food and water at frequent intervals. As the dog recovers, gradually increase the amount and frequency of feeding. If the dog is not eating or is vomiting excessively, the veterinarian should be consulted.

Incision Care

The surgical incision should be kept clean and dry to prevent infection. The veterinarian will provide instructions for incision care, including how to bandage the wound and how often to change the dressing.

2025-01-19

Previous：Nesting Behavior in Dogs: Uncovering the Reasons Behind This Maternal Instinct

Next：How to Care for a Dog with a Weak Immune System