02/10/2025
Poor Ralph is only 9 months old and needs a hip replacement due to Legge Perthes Disease.
We are helping his Mum get him ready for his op and this week we’ve been teaching scent games that he can fall back on during his recovery.
🐾💙So here’s our tips for Helping Your Dog Through Surgery Recovery & Crate Rest 🐾💙
If your dog is facing a long recovery (like 8–10 weeks of crate rest), it can feel tough—but with patience, creativity, and love, you can make it easier for them. Here are some ways to keep your pup comfortable and occupied during healing:
Before Surgery:
✅ Follow your vet’s fasting instructions.
✅ Pack a favorite blanket or toy for comfort at the clinic.
✅ Stay calm—your pup takes cues from you.
✅ If you have time before the surgery concentrate on fitness to aid recovery.
✅ Teach your dog a range of scent games he can play in his crate and on his p*e breaks.
✅ Crate train your dog, make that recovery space a great place to be!
During Recovery:
🛏️ Create a cozy recovery zone – soft bedding, familiar smells, and quiet surroundings.
💊 Stick to the vet’s plan – meds, rest, and follow-up visits are key.
🚶 Controlled p*e breaks only – use a lead to prevent sudden movements or zoomies.
Keeping Your Dog Occupied During Crate Rest:
🧩 Food puzzles & slow feeders – give meals in enrichment toys to make eating fun.
🦴 Safe chews – vet-approved chews can help with boredom and stress.
👃 Scent games – hide tiny treats in a towel or snuffle mat. Play indication games, Where’s Wally, scent trails for p*e breaks.
📖 Calm bonding time – read, talk, or sit by their crate so they feel included.
🧸 Rotate toys – keep things fresh by swapping them every few days.
🎶 Soothing sounds – gentle music or calming dog playlists can help them relax.
💡 Tip: Short, gentle mental stimulation can tire them out as much as physical play—and it keeps their spirits up while their body heals.
Recovery takes time, but with love, patience, and creativity, your pup will get through it—and you’ll come out even more bonded. 💕🐕
👉 Have you gone through crate rest with your dog? What activities or tricks helped the most?
