Your vet might have advised you to get your female dog spayed and you wonder what are the benefits that come with spaying your dog. There are many health problems associated with keeping your bitch unspayed, from mammary tumors and the potentially fatal pyometra to becoming pregnant, and all the risks that entails.
BENEFITS OF SPAYING FEMALE DOGS
When a female dog is spayed, her ovaries, fallopian tubes, and uterus are removed in a surgical procedure. This procedure will stop your female dog from getting pregnant. Sure you might want puppies, but some dogs experience extreme health conditions when getting pregnant and it is more dangerous to just let them be rather than getting spayed. Spaying helps in avoiding cancer in the reproductive system or getting tumors and cysts. It is also beneficial if your female dog finds it particularly hard to give birth.
A spay is a common surgical procedure and is carried out by vets all the time. The operation is quick, low risk, and is well worth having done if you want your bitch to remain healthy and happy.
Just like any surgery, after spaying, your dog will go through a recovery phase that will need your utmost care and attention.
CARING FOR YOUR DOG AFTER SPAY
1. Transport
After her surgery, your dog will not be allowed to walk. Your vet may advise you to let your dog stay overnight to observe her condition and allow her to recover from the sedatives and other medicine she took for the surgery. If you are discharged, you may carry your dog home from the vet, but it is best if you arrange comfortable transportation for her. You may prepare a bed or a stroller where she can lie down while being transported.
2. Call a Friend
Having another set of hands and eyes is important when your dog just came from surgery. You might be in distress or your mind might be foggy from a stressful procedure. A friend will help you take not of additional information you might have missed from the vet. Your friend will also help in taking care of other needs of your newly spayed dog in case your hands are full.
3. Safe Space
Give your dog a safe and quiet space at home where she can peacefully rest and recover – a crate is ideal as long as she is used to it. Make sure that her space is comfortable and well ventilated and properly provided with her immediate needs. Furthermore, have her medicine nearby. Do not let the kids play with the dog and prevent them from going near her. Discourage visitors so that your dog will not be forced to acknowledge visitors that may hinder her fast recovery.
It is also important to make sure you are paying attention to your dog 24/7. Making sure her needs are attended to and to observe her in case she might be in pain or there is something that is bothering her.
4. Change of diet
After surgery, your dog’s body will be weak and she might have trouble eating or lose her appetite. You should change her diet and give her lighter meals. Ask your vet if there are foods to avoid or what is the best supplement for her recovery.
You might also consider using calming drops to ease your dog’s anxiety after the operation.
Billion Pets’ Hemp Oil Calming Drops for Dogs will help with your dog’s anxiety, joint pain, stress, and inflammation, thanks to the soothing properties of Omega 3 and all the other amazing components in the hemp oil. It also has anxiety-reducing properties, so it helps in soothing and calming your dog when she’s in pain or feeling restless. It also has moisturizing qualities thanks to Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids in the oil that will help your distressed dog from having a dry coat. It is suitable for dogs and cats alike, and it can promote better overall health and temperament.
5. Manage the wound
Your dog might be tempted to lick her wound. Make sure she doesn’t scratch or lick it by keeping her bandage intact at all times. You might also consider getting a cone-shaped collar so she cannot lick her wound. Regularly check her wound and replace her bandage to keep her safe from infection. Always keep her clean and her surroundings free from dirt. For more tips on how to care for your dog’s wounds, click here.
Veterinarians and experts on what to do post spay surgery:
HOW LONG AFTER SPAYING CAN MY DOG PLAY?
This depends very much on the bitch. Some are up and about quickly whereas some take longer. Generally after a couple of days, she should be much more comfortable.
WHEN CAN I BATHE MY DOG AFTER SPAYING?
The open wound needs to be completely healed before bathing your dog, and it's recommended to leave it at least a month before bathing.
WHAT CAN I GIVE MY DOG FOR PAIN AFTER SPAYING?
Your veterinarian should have given you some painkillers to give to your dog. If she still appears to be in pain, contact your veterinarian just in case there's a problem.
