06/15/2026
🐾 The Post-Op Period: Why Rest Matters 🐾
Surgery is only part of the healing process, what happens at home is just as important!
✅ Strict Rest & Reduced Activity
Even if your pet seems to be feeling better, their body is still healing. Running, jumping, rough play, stair climbing, and off-leash activity can put stress on surgical sites, increase swelling, delay healing, and even cause complications that may require additional treatment.
✅ Pain Management is Essential
Pets are experts at hiding discomfort. Administer all prescribed pain medications exactly as directed, even if your pet appears comfortable. Effective pain control promotes healing, improves comfort, and helps prevent setbacks during recovery.
✅ Prevent Licking, Chewing & Scratching
One of the most common reasons for post-operative complications is pets licking or chewing at their incision. This can lead to infection, inflammation, broken sutures, and delayed healing. Keep your pet's recovery collar (cone), surgical suit, or other protective device on as recommended by your veterinary team.
✅ Monitor the Incision Daily
Check the surgical site for redness, swelling, discharge, gaps in the incision, or any signs that concern you. Contact your veterinary team promptly if you notice any changes.
❤️ Remember: A few weeks of careful management can make all the difference in your pet's recovery. Following post-operative instructions, restricting activity, managing pain, and preventing licking are the keys to a smooth recovery and the best surgical outcome.
Josie was a perfect girly after her spay surgery and loved relaxing in the sun!