Surgery can be a traumatic time for both yourself and your dog. If you are well prepared for the procedure ahead, you’ll have the comfort of knowing that you’ve done everything you can to lessen the trauma of the experience for your pet.

No matter how simple or complex the surgery is, there are many things you can do to make your dog comfortable before, during and after the event. The veterinarian surgeon and clinic staff will understand that you may be nervous and that your pet may be apprehensive in the lead up, so you should feel free to discuss any issues that concern you along the way. Whether the procedure has been planned for some time or has come up in an emergency situation, the basic care factors still apply.

As your vet will tell you, it’s important that your dog doesn’t eat or drink in the usually eight to twelve hours leading up to the surgery. The type of surgery will determine how many hours, but it’s generally overnight. If you have any doubts, always check with the clinic staff. Remember too that no food means no doggie treats as well! Nor should you let your pet near temptation such as left over food, exposed food waste or the snacks of other pets. If the surgeon finds food in the dogs stomach, the procedure will have to be postponed to another date. This will only prolong the trauma for you and the dog.

If your dog is taking any medications make sure you advise the vet in advance and check if you should continue or suspend those medicines prior to the surgery. You should also alert the vet to any vaccinations that are due – the vet will determine if this will have an impact on the surgery or not.

If your dog will be unable to be bathed and groomed for several days after the surgery you may wish to do this during the day before. Bathing, cleaning ears, trimming nails and a general maintenance check will make the dog more comfortable after the procedure. You vet may also suggest that some general maintenance work be undertaken whilst you dog is still under the care of the surgeon. Make sure you check on any additional costs or exposure to trauma before agreeing to go ahead with this. Ensure that you are aware of any special dietary needs that your dog will require after the surgery and have this ready in advance. If time allows, freshen up your dog’s bedding while the surgery is taking place. A clean and hygienic post-operative environment will assist in your pet’s recovery.

There will be various forms to fill in and paperwork to complete before the surgery goes ahead, so make sure that you allow plenty of time to do this. You should plan to arrive at the animal clinic well before the scheduled time so that you don’t place yourself under additional stress by rushing. If you have any questions or concerns prior to the surgery now is the time to ask one of the clinic staff.

Your dog will detect your anxiety so the less you show, the better. You should avoid emotional scenes at the clinic and make everything appear as normal as possible. A simple pat or rub with some words of encouragement will place your dog in good stead for the experience ahead.