Neutering is a routine surgery practiced by veterinarians. The procedure is done under general anesthesia, and involves the removal of the dog's testicles. However, just as with any surgery, there are always risks for complications both during and after surgery. Once the dog is discharged, it is ultimately up to the owner to carefully follow all the post-surgery instructions.
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No Food or Water
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Upon coming home, most veterinarians recommend refraining from giving food or water because the dog's stomach may be upset after surgery and because dogs very often get excited upon coming home, causing them to vomit.
Limit Activity
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Dogs that have been just neutered may be groggy, unable to walk well and may risk complications if allowed to romp around, and should therefore be placed in a quite area. Confining the dog to a small crate or a small room where it can be monitored will be helpful.
Prevent Licking
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Dogs have a natural instinct to lick and bite the areas where they feel pain, often aggravating wounds and causing infection, bleeding and oozing fluids. In some cases, dogs may even be able to remove their stitches. Dogs that tend to aggravate the suture area should wear an Elizabethan collar.
Monitor Incision
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Incisions on neutered dogs take an average of 10 to 14 days to heal. Owners should keep a watchful eye on the incision to ensure it is healing nicely. Redness, bleeding, excess swelling and drainage should be reported to the veterinarian.
Considerations
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even though many veterinarians use sutures that are absorbed in the dog's skin, some still use sutures that need removed. If this is the case, owners will need to return to the vet within seven to 10 days to have the stitches removed.
Warning
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Owners should consult with their veterinarians immediately should their dog exhibit any of the following: pale gums, depression, discharge or bleeding from the incision, excess swelling, difficulty urinating, labored breathing, and episodes of vomiting and diarrhea.
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