7 Helpful Ways to Prepare Your Dog for Emergency Surgery

It does not matter if it is a complicated surgery or routine procedure; knowing that your canine companion needs an operation can be a stressful and upsetting time. Fortunately, knowing what to expect and how to prepare your dog can make the entire process easier. There is a lot of information to remember, but your veterinarian at East Texas Pet Emergency Clinic will give you instructions. 

When Your Dog May Need Emergency Surgery

A veterinary visit is essential when your pup does not behave normally. The problem could be relatively minor, or it could be a life-threatening situation. The American College of Veterinary Surgeons suggests that emergency surgery for pets is a way to correct or determine the pet’s sudden or long-standing health issues. 

Some of the reasons why your dog may require emergency surgery include the following:

 

• Injuries from vehicular accidents, blunt trauma, falls or fights
   

• Exploratory surgery is used to determine the cause of a pet’s ailment or to assess the development of masses, lymph nodes, or vital organs
   

• Internal bleeding
   

• Gastric dilatation-volvulus
   

• C-section

How to Prepare Your Dog

Pet parents should always have access to an emergency veterinary clinic or hospital. Some of the steps you can take to prepare your canine companion for an emergency operation are:

Take Away Your Dog’s Food and Water

Keep food and water away from your dog after midnight before surgery. Close the toilet lid and ensure your pup does not have access to any water or food to prevent vomiting during surgery. 

Consult Your Veterinarian About Medication

If your pup is on specific medication, check with your veterinarian to determine whether it is safe to administer the drug before surgery. Ideally, animals should have an empty stomach before surgery, but there are cases where continuing the dose is important.

Consider Giving Your Dog a Bath

You may want to bathe your dog, trim his/her nails, and clean his/her ears before the procedure. Once your furry friend returns from surgery, you will not be able to groom him/her for several days. If bathing is unnecessary, brush your pup well the night before to reduce mats.

Prevent Your Dog From Going on Long Walks or Playing Rough 

Take steps to prevent muscle soreness before the operation. Your four-legged friend will be dealing with a lot during surgery, so he/she does not need muscle and joint soreness too.

Buy Special Dog Food in Advance

Check with your veterinarian to determine whether your pet will require a special diet following surgery. Buy the food in advance or prepare a batch of homemade food and store it in the fridge. You will want to spend as much time as possible with your canine friend when he/she returns home, not frantically trying to make or find dog food.

Ensure Your Dog Has a Good Night’s Sleep

Rest is essential in reducing the anxiety and stress associated with surgery for you and your dog.

Remain Calm

Dogs are very perceptive. They can sense their owners’ emotions. So, arriving on time and staying as calm as possible while dropping off your pup is best. That will help your dog remain calm and relaxed, too. 

It is easier to prepare for planned surgeries. After all, you know when the procedure will take place, giving you enough time to have everything ready. However, you can do little to prepare for emergency surgeries since they take you by surprise. Fortunately, you can take these steps to prepare yourself and your furry friend. 

For more about pet emergency surgery, visit East Texas Pet Emergency Clinic at our office in Longview, Texas. Call (903) 759-8545 to book an appointment today.