Dog Fracture Surgery: Post-Operative Care and Recovery18

After your dog has undergone a fracture repair surgery, it is essential to provide proper post-operative care to ensure a successful recovery. This involves managing pain, preventing infection, and supporting the healing bone while promoting mobility. Here is a comprehensive guide to post-operative care for dogs after fracture surgery:

Immediate Post-Operative Care (First 24-48 Hours)

1. Pain Management: Pain medication prescribed by your veterinarian should be administered regularly to alleviate discomfort. Monitor your dog for signs of pain, such as limping, whining, or difficulty moving.

2. Rest: Keep your dog in a quiet and confined area with limited mobility. Avoid excessive activity or playtime that could put stress on the surgical site.

3. Bandage Care: If your dog has a bandage or cast, it is crucial to change it regularly as directed by your veterinarian to prevent infection. Keep the surgical site clean and dry.

First Week Post-Surgery

4. Monitoring: Monitor your dog's appetite, energy levels, and incision site for any signs of infection or complications. Contact your veterinarian immediately if you notice swelling, redness, or discharge.

5. Exercise Restriction: Gradually increase your dog's activity level with short walks on a leash according to your veterinarian's instructions. Avoid strenuous exercise or running that could compromise the healing bone.

6. Nutrition: Provide your dog with a balanced and nutritious diet. Ensure adequate protein intake to support bone healing.

Second Week Post-Surgery

7. Physical Therapy: Start physical therapy exercises as recommended by your veterinarian. These exercises involve gentle range-of-motion exercises and controlled walking to promote mobility and muscle strength.

8. Occasional Bandage Changes: Continue to change the bandage as needed to prevent infection. Your veterinarian may advise you to remove the bandage entirely if the wound is healing well.

9. Gradual Increase in Exercise: Gradually increase your dog's activity level with longer walks and playtime, but avoid excessive jumping or running.

Third Week and Beyond

10. Regular Check-ups: Schedule regular follow-up appointments with your veterinarian for X-rays and examinations to assess the healing process and adjust treatment accordingly.

11. Rehabilitation: Continue with rehabilitation exercises as directed by your veterinarian to restore full mobility and strengthen the injured area.

12. Return to Normal Activity: Once your veterinarian has cleared your dog, gradually return it to its normal activity level, including exercise and play. Avoid high-impact activities until the healing bone is fully consolidated.

Additional Tips

- Keep your dog's environment clean and disinfected to prevent infection.

- Use a cone or Elizabethan collar as prescribed by your veterinarian to prevent your dog from licking or biting the surgical site.

- Monitor your dog's weight and adjust its diet accordingly to maintain a healthy weight.

- Administer antibiotics and other medications as prescribed by your veterinarian to prevent and treat infections.

- Seek veterinary attention immediately if you notice any changes in your dog's behavior, appetite, or incision site.Remember, every dog's recovery time and post-operative care plan may vary depending on the severity of the fracture and overall health. It is essential to follow your veterinarian's instructions carefully and monitor your dog's progress closely to ensure a successful and speedy recovery.

2025-01-24

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