Client Instructions
Before Your Pet’s Surgery
Fasting food and water as from the night before is necessary. There might be exceptions so ask the doctor if in doubt. Usually cats with renal failure and cats/dogs that are diabetic can have water overnight and in the morning.
In some cases pets may go home on the same day of the surgery (most dentals for example) but in many cases we may recommend that your pet stays with us overnight. This will allow us to recheck your pet’s incision and health in the morning. Please discuss with the doctor if you would rather take them home at the end of the day.
After Surgery
- When an animal has been sick, his resistance is lowered and he is in need of a little extra attention. We suggest for several days following discharge from the hospital that your pet be fed very carefully. Its elimination should be carefully observed. Your pet should also be protected from undue exposure, such as getting wet or chilled.
- When your pet gets home, he or she will be very excited at seeing you and will probably want to drink an excess of water. DO NOT ALLOW THIS – but give only small amounts. No jumping or running is advisable for 1 week post surgery, place in a small room if necessary and walk on leash.
- Main feeding time in our hospital is 9AM. If your pet is discharged after this time, he has probably been fed. Due to excitement of going home, he will often wish to eat/drink excessively. This will cause him to throw up all food and water, which in turns upsets their bowels and can cause diarrhea. If in doubt as to feeding – enquire.
- You may notice your pet has one or more shaved areas on his legs. It’s because he has received intravenous injections. This could have been anesthetic for an operation or other medication received. Hair will usually grow back in a relatively short time.
- If a prescription has been given, call the doctor upon completion so he will know the progress of his patient. Report any complications immediately.
- If your pet goes home with a splint or bandage, it is very essential that he have rest. Do not play or excite him in any way! Keep splint or bandage dry. Repairs to splints are costly and can be avoided by following the above instructions. SPLINTS AND BANDAGES MUST BE CHECKED PERIODICALLY. Please arrange appointments.
- In most surgical cases, removal of stitches is required. If an appointment has not been arranged, please enquire.
- DO NOT ALLOW YOUR PET TO LICK OR CHEW STITCHES OR BANDAGES, ECT. Please phone us if you are in doubt. Also call us if there is excessive redness or swelling of the incision or vomiting and diarrhea occur.