Spaying or neutering your dog is a significant decision, and it’s natural to have concerns about potential complications. While the chances of complications are minimal, it’s essential to be aware of what to expect and the signs of complications or infection to watch out for. Our team of expert veterinarians in Harrisburg is here to provide you with the necessary information.
What to Expect After the Procedure
After the procedure, your dog may feel a bit queasy or tired, which can be a common side effect of anesthesia. However, rest assured that your furry friend will be given pain medications to alleviate any discomfort. During the first 24 hours, their appetite might decrease as well. To prevent licking the incision site, your dog will need to wear a cone. It’s crucial not to bathe them or allow them to swim for at least 10-14 days. Keeping the wound dry until it heals is of utmost importance.
It’s also vital to restrict your dog’s activities and ensure they get enough rest during the recovery period. Even if they attempt to run or jump, remember that it won’t speed up their healing process. Dogs don’t quite grasp the significance of rest, so it’s up to you to limit their movements. Keep your pup in their crate or a small, quiet room away from any excitement to minimize their activity level—no running or jumping allowed!
The procedure for spaying a female dog is more complex than neutering male dogs. However, the recovery time should be relatively similar, taking approximately 10-14 days. Remember to keep the cone on, the incision site dry, and their activities limited until they fully recover.
Signs of Infection and Complications
While complications following spaying or neutering procedures are incredibly rare, it’s important to note that any surgery carries some risk. Therefore, it’s crucial to carefully follow your veterinarian’s post-operative instructions. Failing to do so may lengthen your dog’s recovery time and increase the likelihood of complications or infections. Some potential side effects of spaying and neutering procedures include:
- Infection
- Anesthetic complications
- Self-inflicted complications
- Poorly healed wound
- Scrotal bruising/swelling in males
- Incontinence problems
- Hernias in females
- Internal bleeding
- Ovarian remnants in females
Here are the signs of infection and complications that you need to watch out for:
- Lethargy that persists for more than a couple of days
- Refusal to eat for more than a couple of meals
- Signs of pain lasting longer than a week (shaking, hiding, drooling)
- Acute redness, swelling, or bruising at the incision site
- Bleeding or pus from the incision site
- Vomiting or diarrhea that lasts longer than 24 hours after the procedure (some immediate vomiting can be normal due to anesthesia)
- The incision site reopens
- A foul smell emanating from the incision site
If your dog exhibits any of the above symptoms, it’s crucial to contact your veterinarian as soon as possible. They will provide you with further guidance and information on what to expect after the procedure, including minor swelling, lethargy, or vomiting.
Reach Out to Our Harrisburg Vets
If you have any more questions or if your pup is showing any signs of complications, don’t hesitate to contact our experienced veterinarians in Harrisburg. Your dog’s health and well-being are our top priorities, and we are here to help throughout their spaying or neutering journey.
For more information, visit Katten TrimSalon.