It is a big decision to get your dog fixed, which can make it a bit intimidating for some owners who are concerned about complications following the procedure. Here, our Hattiesburg vets explain the signs of infection after spaying or neutering your dog.
What to Expect After Your Dog's Procedure
It's normal for your dog to feel a bit tired or queasy immediately after being spayed or neutered because of the anesthesia. Your pooch will also be provided with pain medications to help alleviate any pain. They will also have a reduced appetite for the first 24 hours after the procedure. In addition to this, your dog will need to wear a cone to keep them from licking at the incision site. And, you shouldn't bathe them or allow them to swim for a minimum of 10-14 days. It's imperative to keep the incision site dry until it heals.
Another measure you have you need to implement is limiting your dog's activities, making sure they rest until they have 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. You can restrict their movements by 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 their cone on, the incision site dry, and their activities limited until they make a full recovery.
Signs of an Infection or Complication
Keep in mind that it's very rare for dogs to develop any complications after being spayed or neutered but, with every surgical procedure, there is an element of risk involved. This is why it's essential to carefully follow your veterinarian's instructions for post-operative care. By not following them you are putting your beloved pooch at risk for a longer recovery period and potentially other complications and infections.
Some of the possible complications following a spay and neuter procedure include:
- Infection
- Poorly healed wound
- Self-inflicted complications
- Anestetic complications
- Incontinence problems
- Hernias in females
- Scrotal bruising/swelling in males
- Ovarian remnants in females
- Internal bleeding
Here are some signs that your dog is developing an infection or experiencing a complication after their procedure;
- A bad smell coming from the incision site
- Acute redness, swelling, or bruising at the incision site
- Lethargy for more than a couple of days
- Refusal to eat more than a couple of meals
- The incision site reopens
- Signs of pain for longer than a week (shaking, hiding, drooling)
- Vomiting or diarrhea longer than 24 hours after the procedure (some immediately after can be normal as a result of anesthesia)
- Bleeding or pus from the incision site
Your vet will provide you with more information on what you can expect immediately after the procedure, including some minor swelling, lethargy, and vomiting. However, If you see any of the above signs of a complication in your dog it's important to call your veterinarian as soon as possible.