Orthopedic Surgery Post-care

Orthopedic surgery is a broad term encompassing any procedure that addresses issues with your pet’s ligaments, tendons, joints, bones, and other skeletal system tissues. The healing journey can be challenging for both you and your pet, but with proper care and adherence to veterinary instructions, your pet’s recovery can be as quick and healthy as possible. At in Wilmington, IL, we are dedicated to guiding you through this vital period.

Upon your pet’s safe return home after orthopedic surgery, our veterinary surgeon or a veterinarian will provide detailed instructions for their post-operative care. It is paramount that you pay close attention to these guidelines, taking notes if necessary. If you have any questions or realize you’ve forgotten a detail, please do not hesitate to contact our team at . We are here to support you and your pet’s well-being, and we are always happy to provide clarification.

Orthopedic surgeries are performed under general anesthesia, which may cause your pet to experience some nausea or a temporary loss of appetite as they recover from its immediate effects. To aid digestion during this time, we recommend offering them a light meal, such as rice and chicken. Your pet should typically recover from the effects of general anesthesia within 24 hours.

Following orthopedic surgery, our surgeon will likely advise a period of restricted movement for your pet. While your pup may not be very energetic initially, preventing strenuous activities like running, jumping, or excessive movement is critical for their full recovery. The most effective way to achieve this is by confining your pet to a designated safe space, such as a playpen or a separate room, free from anything they might jump onto or injure themselves with. For certain orthopedic procedures, strict confinement, or “crate rest,” may be recommended for some or all of the recovery period. Ensure the confined space is as comfortable as possible with their favorite toys, blankets, and cushions, providing ample room for them to relax.

Our orthopedic veterinarian or veterinary nurse will thoroughly explain the medications prescribed to manage your pup’s post-surgery pain. This includes precise instructions on the required dose, the method of administration, and how frequently to give it. Adhering closely to these instructions is essential for the medication’s effectiveness and to minimize potential side effects. Commonly prescribed treatments include antibiotics to prevent infection and pain medications. If your pet tends to be anxious or high-strung, your vet might also prescribe an anti-anxiety medication or a mild sedative to help keep them calm throughout the healing process.

The time required for your pet to fully recover from orthopedic surgery depends on several factors, including the specific type of surgery performed, your pet’s overall health, their age, and their individual rehabilitation needs. As a general guideline, soft tissue surgeries like spaying, neutering, or abdominal procedures typically show significant healing within 2 to 3 weeks and may be fully healed within a month and a half. However, orthopedic surgeries often require a more extended healing period. Your pet will likely be mostly recovered between 2 and 3 months after the procedure, with full recovery potentially taking up to 6 months. Consistent follow-up and care are crucial during this extended recovery period.