Recovery From Puppy Neutering

Although it can be a source of anxiety for a pet owner, puppy neutering is a relatively simple and safe procedure. Because most puppies' testicles lie outside their body, recovery from puppy neutering is generally quick and painless. That being said, there are a handful of precautions you need to take once your puppy returns home.

  1. Licking

    • It is natural for a puppy to lick the surgery site as it begins to heal. However, if the dog begins to scratch or chew at the area, you need to intervene. The puppy's claws and tongue can spread bacteria and cause the stitches to split open. If you are unable to keep your puppy's attention off his stitches, consider asking your veterinarian for a plastic inverted cone-like collar that serves to run interference between the puppy's mouth and the healing wound.

    Activity

    • It's very important that your puppy remain relatively inactive for the first few days after surgery. Although it isn't very realistic to expect a puppy to refrain from at least some form of activity, you should discourage him from jumping as this can cause the stitches to tear and could potentially result in a trip back to the veterinarian. Most puppies have a tendency to jump frantically when they are excited. Although this may be difficult to stop, you should make a strong effort to limit this sort of behavior. Also, you might consider investing in a puppy step to help him or her climb onto the bed or couch if this is something you allow.

    When To Worry

    • Although recovery from puppy neutering generally goes smoothly, occasionally there are complications. If you notice any of the following warning signs, your pet could potentially have a serious infection and should be taken to your local veterinarian immediately.

    Warning Signs

      • Extensive swelling, warmth or redness around the stitches
      • Bleeding or foul odors emitting from the wound
      • Unusually lazy behavior, weakness, trembling, high fever or low interest in food or water

    Things To Consider

    • Although many people worry that neutering will harm their puppy, the truth is that the process is not only safe, it can improve the animal's quality of life and help the pet and its owner cultivate a stronger relationship. Neutered dogs are generally calmer and more attentive. Furthermore, neutered pets tend to be healthier, live longer and usually refrain from roaming away from their homes and into dangerous situations.