Information on Care After a Dog Spaying

Spaying is one of the most common procedures for dogs. In the surgery, the veterinarian removes a dog's ovaries and uterus to prevent pregnancy. Aftercare for your spayed dog is simple, but requires your careful attention. Keeping your dog comfortable and allowing her to rest are important for a smooth recovery.

  1. Immediate Care

    • When you bring your dog home, let her lie down in a quiet place. Offer water and small amounts of food, but don't force the dog to eat. The dog may vomit small amounts of liquid, which is generally normal and a reaction to anesthesia.

    Diet and Exercise

    • Continue to offer food and water to your dog as you normally would after the first night she is home after the operation.

      According to the website Pets.ca, dogs should not be allowed off leash until two weeks after the surgery. This is important to keep your dog from ripping the surgical cut open. Do not allow your dog to jump up onto or down from furniture and other objects as this causes her to stretch her abdomen.

    Stitches

    • Stitching for the surgery is sometimes done with stitches that must be removed by a veterinarian several days after surgery or with ones that dissolve over time.
      Either way, watch your dog closely when you bring her home and over the next few weeks. Do not allow your dog to lick or bite the stitches. If the dog insists, you may have to ask your vet for a head cone, which physically prevents the dog from licking herself.

    Pain Management

    • Most dogs won't require additional pain medication after surgery. Some dogs, however, will need help controlling their pain. According to an article on the website Caber Feidh, dogs can be prescribed anti-inflammatory or narcotic pain relievers. Consult your vet before administering any medication to your dog.

    Complications

    • Any surgery comes with the risk of complication. Spaying is a routine surgery with little post-surgery risks, however. The most common complication is infection in the incision area due to the dog licking at or pulling out her stitches. Consult your vet if the incision area becomes inflamed or if the dog manages to remove the stitches herself.