Pre-op & Post-op Care

In the best hands

To help you take the best care of your pet as they recover, you will receive a post-op care sheet following your pet’s procedure. If your pet has had a general anaesthetic or sedation, they won’t be quite themselves for the next 24 hours and may need some extra TLC.

Our nurses will call you on the day after the procedure to follow up and check your pet is doing well, but if you have any concerns, please call the practice on 01736 330331 during business hours for advice and help.

Pre-op Advice

What you need to know to prepare for your pet’s admission appointment.

Dropping your pet off at the vets might be an all new experience for both you and your pet, but all you need to do is follow these steps to make everything go smoothly.

  • Make sure your pet has their last meal before 10pm the night before and no breakfast on the morning of the procedure.
  • Leave water down overnight, but remove this first thing in the morning.
  • Make sure your pet has had a chance to complete toileting needs before they come in.
  • Try to avoid a muddy walk for dogs on the morning of admission!
  • Feel free to bring your pet’s own bedding for the kennels if you think this might help them settle more easily.
  • Arrive in good time for your scheduled admission appointment – this really help us get the day started promptly.

Post-op Care

Wound Care

It is important to monitor your pets wound daily, checking for any swelling, bleeding, opening, bruising, discharge or heat. Your pet must not lick or chew at their wound. If your pet is likely to interfere with the wound they may require a buster collar or medical pet shirt to prevent interference.

Exercise

It is best to keep cats indoors for 7-10 days post-surgery, in order to discourage over extending of the wound site.

Dogs will require short, frequent lead exercise for up to 10 days post-surgery. Your Veterinary Nurse will advise further depending on the surgery performed on an individual basis.