Post-Op-Care instructions
Dog Castration / Neuter
HOME CARE INSTRUCTION
A castration is a routine procedure and our surgical experience and up to date anaesthetic protocols does result in a very quick recovery however, many pets do not understand that they need to rest, which is why we will need your help to ensure a smooth uneventful recovery at home.
DURING THEIR STAY TODAY
Whilst your pet has been with us, we have taken several extra steps to ensure a quick and safe recovery, and minimize any undue pain or stress.
Prior to surgery all our patients would have received a combination of an opioid pain reliever, a sedative, and an additional calming medication. This allows them to settle and relax in readiness for their procedure
They were then placed on an IV drip prior to induction of general anaesthesia, which helped to keep them well hydrated and maintained an ideal blood pressure throughout surgery. Our anaesthetic protocol generally results in a quick recovery, with most pets being awake within 20-30min of surgery completion. This means that patients are up and ready to go home a lot sooner.
Upon recovery in our heated wards, they have been given an additional intravenous pain reliever, which will last overnight.
Given that they have missed their breakfast this morning they will be offered a small meal of cooked chicken, which is usually well received.
HOME CARE
It is not unusual for some pets to be a little quiet tonight when they return home, please ensure they have a quiet, warm area to rest.
Tonight
- You may notice a shaved area on their leg, or their may be a small band aid on their leg, this will need to be removed later tonight (if present)
- Due to the IV fluid drip today, they may need an extra toilet stop before bed
- They can have a light meal for dinner
- Provide a quiet space for them to rest
Tomorrow
Most pets will be back to normal by the morning, but if you have any concerns please do not hesitate to call.
Pain Relief:
- Please start the additional pain relief provided (as directed).
- Watch for any tummy upsets (vomiting or diarrhoea), and stop the medication if this occurs.
If you feel you pet is any discomfort please let us know.
Feeding
- Feeding can return to normal from tomorrow morning.
Activity
- Please keep them quiet for the first week after surgery
- Short lead walks can commence within 2-3 days after surgery.
- Avoid any strenuous exercise such as running in the yard, or ball games at the park until advised
Wounds
There can be a small amount of swelling around the surgery site. For some dogs with extremely sensitive skin, there can be increased redness and irritation as well. The additional pain relief provided will also work as an anti-inflammatory to help reduce any inflammation and discomfort. Sometimes a soothing skin cream can help, and may be provided if needed.
In a few pets, particularly small breeds, they may seem unsettled and reluctant to walk, they may repeatedly sit down a lot too when walking. If this is the case we can certainly provide a little added help to help calm and reduce any increase pain or discomfort.
- Please monitor their wound daily
- Please make sure that they cannot lick their wound.
- If not already provided an Elizabethan collar is recommended to stop them from licking their wounds. This will reduce the risk of wound trauma, or infection.
- If you are concerned about the wound please get in touch.
Stitches
- There are two layers of stitches, both subcutaneous stitches which will dissolve over several weeks, and the skin stitches which will need to be removed.
- Skin Stitches will need to be taken out in 10-14 days
- Please arrange a time with one of our nurses to have the stitches removed.
In certain circumstances, where stitch removal may not be possible, additional time will be taken to place intradermal skin sutures. These will dissolve and do not need to be removed. You will be advised of this if intradermal dissolving stitches have been placed.
Things to look out for
Generally there are very few complications after the operation, however, there are some signs to watch for that may be of concern
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Dull and listless (especially after the first 24 hours)
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Excessive redness, increased irritation or swelling around the wound, or the scrotum.
If you have any concerns, please call us immediately
Should we not be here please contact the
Animal Emergency Centre Mount Waverley
on 9803 8122
