Following spay/neuter surgery, your pet will require time and a little extra attention to ensure their body properly heals. The following aftercare instructions provide guidelines for the next several days of your pet's recovery, as well as what to expect and potential red flags. Show
If you have questions or concerns that are not addressed here, please call AHS Vet Centers at 763-489-7729. Video URL Aftercare instructionsThe first 24 hours post-surgery
The 10-14 days following surgery
Protecting your pet's incisionDo not allow your pet to lick or chew their incision. Licking can lead to serious complications like the incision opening or becoming infected. This can be painful and may require follow-up visits which could result in unexpected costs. Recommended: Elizabethan collar (also called an E-collar or cone)To prevent irritating the incision, we recommend you purchase an Elizabethan collar (E-collar) to keep your pet from being able to reach the area with their mouth. These cone collars are the most effective protection against your pet causing trauma to their incision, and should be worn for 10-14 days following surgery. E-collars can be purchased from AHS or at most pet stores. They're only effective if fitted properly. The cone should go past your pet’s nose by two inches. If it's any shorter, they're likely still able to reach their incision. Alternatives to E-collarsIf your pet won't tolerate an E-collar, consider one of the following options:
What to expect after surgeryThe following guidelines will help you to determine if your pet’s recovery is normal, requires attention, or is in a state of emergency. These guidelines don't cover every potential issue, so if you have concerns that are not addressed here, please call us at 763-489-7729 or seek emergency treatment at one of these locations. Normal issues after surgery These issues should resolve on their own over a few days. Contact us if you see no signs of improvement or things worsen over time.
Issues that require attention, but are not an emergency Please call 763-489-7729 if your pet experiences the following:
Emergency issues after surgery Please take your pet to a local, 24-hour emergency clinic if you see any of the following:
Review our listing of local 24-hour, emergency veterinary clinics. Please remember you will be responsible for any costs incurred if your pet is treated at one of these locations. Questions or concerns?Contact us at 763-489-7729. We will make every reasonable effort to treat complications resulting from your pet's surgery. We also offer post-op exams at no cost (though some fees may apply if medications are needed). How long does it take a dog to recover from being neutered?This calls for time, rest, and monitoring to ensure the body can complete the repair process, which generally takes about 10 to 14 days. Caring for your dog during this recovery period leaves you with an important job.
Do male dogs change after being neutered?Behavioral Changes in a Dog After Being Neutered
Removing the testicles removes the largest source of testosterone in the body. This results in a decrease in sexually driven behaviors in your dog: urine marking, escaping to seek female dogs, and aggression toward other male dogs.
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