Surgery to neuter female dogs, often referred to as spaying, is generally considered a safe and effective procedure to end the possibility of reproduction. Pet owners are urged to watch the area of the incision for any signs of infection.
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External Signs of an Infection
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While some swelling and redness around the incision is normal, it should be watched to make sure it is healing. A veterinarian should be consulted if the incision gets redder and more swollen instead of healing in the days after the surgery. A hot feeling at the site of the incision may indicate a fever.
Other Signs of Infection
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Dogs that exhibit loss of appetite or drowsiness more than 48 hours after the surgery may have an infection. Other signs include constipation and decreased mobility.
Precautions to Avoid Infections
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Avoid bathing the dog or allowing it to run into standing water in order to keep the incision dry. Dogs must be refrained from licking or scratching the incision site. An Elizabethan collar may be necessary to keep the dog from damaging the surgery site.
Medical Followup
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Some veterinarians use sutures that must be removed. This usually requires a return to the vet's office about 10 to 14 days after the surgery.
Other Precautions
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Pet owners should always follow the veterinarians post-surgery instructions. Even with the best precautions, infections are a possibility. Dogs should be inspected twice a day for at least two weeks after the neutering surgery.
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