Signs of Infection After Neutering Dog

Neutering or spaying your dog is a common veterinary surgical procedure, but there are some things to keep an eye on following the procedure. Today, our Hopkinsville vets explain what you can expect after neutering your dog and how to look out for infection.

What You Can Expect After Spaying / Neutering Your Dog

Your pup will most likely feel a little queasy or tired immediately after their spay or neuter procedure, which is a normal effect of the anesthesia. Your pup will also be given pain medications that will help alleviate any pain. Their appetite will also be reduced during the first 24 hours. Your dog will also need to wear a cone to prevent them from licking at the incision site.

In addition to this, you shouldn't bathe your dog or let them swim for at least 10-14 days. It's critical to keep the incision site dry until it heals.

It's also essential to limit your dog's activities and make sure they rest until they are recovered. Even if they try to run or jump, it doesn't mean they are healing quicker, dogs don't know that they need to rest, so you will have to restrict their movements. Limiting your pup's movements (no running or jumping) could include keeping them in their crate or a small room away from any excitement.

The procedure for spaying female dogs is also more complex than neutering male dogs, but their recovery time should be about the same, which is approximately 10 - 14 days. It's essential to keep your dog's cone on, the incision site dry, and to limit your pup's activities until they make a full recovery.

Signs of Complications & Infections After a Spay or Neuter Procedure

It's very rare for there to be any complications after a spay/neuter procedure, however, with every surgical procedure, there is a level of risk involved. This makes it very important to follow your veterinarian's instructions for post-operative care. If you do not follow them, you are putting your dog at risk for a longer recovery period and possibly other complications and infections. Some of the possible complications following a spay and neuter procedure include:

Here we have listed the signs of infection and complications you need to keep your eye out for:

Your vet will provide you with more information on what you can expect after the procedure, including some minor swelling, lethargy, and vomiting immediately afterward. However, If you see your dog exhibiting any of the above signs of a complication, it's important to call your veterinarian as soon as possible.

Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.

Is your dog showing signs of a complication or infection following their spaying or neutering procedure? Contact our Hopkinsville vets today to have any questions answered or to have your pup examined.