Preparing for Your Pet’s Procedure

Whether a procedure is scheduled for tomorrow or two months from now, there is never a bad time to start preparing.   Recovery from an anesthetic “event” can be made easier with a little planning

The goals are to minimize your pet’s stress and discomfort while managing their pain and mobility.

It can be scary for your pet to come home from the hospital and be immediately placed in a crate or pen.  Here are some tips to ease that transition.

 

Talk to your veterinarian about the upcoming procedure.   Have your questions prepared.

  • Will your pet be sleepy when they come home?
  • Will/Should your pet be able to walk or move around on their own when they come home or shortly afterward?
  • Should the recovery space be in a quiet setting or in a space with more activity around them?

 

Set up the “safe space” early.

  • Have the space established early to reduce last-minute decisions.
  • Non-slip, low profile flooring is KEY!
  • Will a crate or exercise pen be needed?
  • Should stairs be avoided or blocked off?
  • Is a harness or other mobility device needed to move/relocate your pet?

Introduce your pet to the space in advance.

  • Get your pet accustomed to spending small amounts of time in the space.  You may want to start by being in the space with them.   This will make is seem less daunting when they come home from the hospital.

 

 To fluff or not to fluff?

  • If your pet had a dental cleaning, they will likely appreciate a warm, fluffy bed as they recover from anesthesia.   However, if your pet underwent abdominal or orthopedic surgery, a fluffy bed can make moving around difficult and painful.

 

These simple steps can be very helpful to easy anxiety

for both your pet and you.

 

Avery on her air mattress following surgery.