Helping Your Dog Recover From An Injury

Whether your dog is recovering from an injury, illness or surgery, it is important to look after their needs, ensure they have the time to recuperate fully, and follow the veterinarian's instructions. Sometimes this is harder on dog owners because you feel sorry for your dog, but consistent rules and guidance are what our dogs need from us for a safe and speedy recovery.

Keeping your dog calm and stress free

Just like with humans, your dog will need rest to heal from their dog injury. During the recovery process, your dog may seem more sluggish than usual and may be sleeping more. Don't worry, this is normal and helps your dog conserve energy, mend tissues and reduce the likelihood of re-injury. If your dog had surgery, they may still be feeling the effects of the anaesthesia and most dogs will be very tired and somewhat disoriented for the first 12 hours or so after being released. Different breeds and dogs will react differently.

As a loving dog owner, you can help your dog recuperate by minimising distractions, such as children playing, visitors, and other pets that could make the injury worse. This may mean keeping them in a separate room, pen or crate. If your dog is confined to a crate, give them a toy such as a GameChanger® filled with their favourite treats to keep them busy and distracted from their injury.

Remember, your dog doesn't understand that they are not to run and play because this could complicate their injury. Talk to your vet so you know exactly what to expect and what is "normal" as your dog recovers from their injury.

Medical needs

Spend time with your dog on a daily basis stroking and gently grooming them, looking for any changes in their skin or coat, unusual discharges or swelling from the injury. Check with your veterinarian to see if gentle massage is okay. This can increase circulation to any wounds and help in the healing process. Monitor their eating habits and notify your veterinarian immediately if your dog experiences any vomiting or diarrhoea. Make sure that you strictly follow the guidelines provided by your veterinarian when giving any medication to your dog, including completing the prescription entirely.

Dressings

Bandages, splints, casts or other dressings may be required to help stabilise a healing fracture or surgical procedure and protect the wound from infection. Dressings can also provide protection from your dog's natural tendency to lick a wound. Many vets will use a cone around a dog's head to prevent licking. The Stop Bite collar is another great product for helping to stop the licking.

Helping your dog get back to normal

Since you may have had to put your dog's exercise routine on hold while they are recovering, know there may be some hesitation on their part in getting back to a normal routine. Take it easy at first. There's no rush, otherwise you may be risking further injury and complications.

Walking is a great way for you and your dog to reconnect and bond. Twice daily outings, perhaps to their favourite place, will have them feeling better in no time!

See our tip sheet for more information.

Recent Articles