At Amigo Animal Hospital, we sometimes recommend orthopedic surgery for pets to improve their quality of life. Still, we understand how nerve-racking it can be if you have never dealt with pet surgery before. If you live in Westminster, Seal Beach, Huntington Beach, or the surrounding areas, and your pet needs surgery or other veterinary services, contact our team at Amigo Animal Hospital.
Your Pet May Need to be Hospitalized
Your pet may be hospitalized overnight or longer after the surgery. If hospitalization is necessary for your pet, all personal items will be returned to you. You may be able to provide bedding for your pet during this time. Our staff will call daily with updates on your pet's status.
What To Expect
If you take your pet home immediately, it may be lethargic and have a lack appetite from the anesthetic. Normal behavior typically returns within a day.
Medication After Surgery
Our veterinarian may prescribe pain medication for your pet as it heals from the orthopedic surgery. NSAIDs can relieve pain and inflammation. They are commonly available as pills or injections. Antibiotics are also commonly prescribed after surgery. Follow all of the medication instructions, including dosage, frequency, and duration, given by our veterinarian. Watch out for any changes in behavior, appetite, skin, stool, or vomiting. These changes may indicate a reaction to the medication. If you notice any potential side effects, stop the medication immediately and contact us.
Help Your Pet Heal
Our veterinarian may recommend physical therapy to encourage healing. Professional physical therapists can perform specific exercises with your pet and create a routine that you can do with your pet at home to further aid with healing after surgery.
Follow-up Appointments
Veterinarians typically advise pet owners to return for an appointment between six and twelve weeks after the surgery. You may schedule this check-up before you leave the office with your pet. This appointment may require anesthetic and X-rays, and you may be instructed not to feed your pet for twelve hours before the procedure.
Contact Our Team at Amigo Animal Hospital
If you live in Westminster, Seal Beach, Huntington Beach, or the surrounding areas, call our team at Amigo Animal Hospital today at 714-894-555 to schedule an appointment with Dr. McInroy. We can answer any questions that you may have about pet surgeries or other aspects regarding your pet’s health.