Pet Recovery Guide

​The inspiration behind this post is my own on the mend dog, Toby. Late last year he partially ruptured his cruciate ligament and it has been a long road to recovery. ​

An injured or sick pet takes a toll, I wanted to share my experiences and learnings. I am incredibly grateful to the wonderful team at Forrest Hill Vets and NSVECC (After hours) for the care they gave my boy. 

• If time permits, do your research into the injury or illness
  Make sure you feel confident with the course of treatment, leave no question unanswered. 
  If you don't understand the technical terminology used, ask for clarification.
  If there is something that doesn't feel right, don't be afraid to get a second opinion.
  
  

First and foremost, you are your dogs' advocate. 

• Make sure you have support
  Think about what support you may need for your dogs' recovery. Getting him in and out of the car, taking him out to the toilet. It isn't just surgery day you need to be thinking about.
  
  
• Set up an area for your dogs' recovery
  A pen or a crate with a decent bed and some nice soft blankets and padding is perfect. Hit the op shop and grab some old towels and blankets that you can throw out later. 
  
  
• Ask your vet how you can keep your dog as pain free as possible
  They'll likely send you home with pain medication for your dog. Check with them that there isn't anything else they could be sending home with you, just in case your dog needs it later. Keeping on top of your dogs' pain medication is your new priority. ​
  
  
• Think of ways to keep your dog entertained (and calm) during recovery
  I took away toys that made my dog hyper excited such as his treat ball, and replaced them with others. Go to the salvation army and get soft toys that you can put his dinner in, or give him a kong with some peanut butter in it. 
  
  
• Get pet insurance before you need it!
  In times where our dogs are ill or injured, you don't need the added financial pressure. Getting your dog healthy should be where your energy goes. Pet insurance is worth it, my dogs recovery cost close to $6000 and the pet insurance has now well and truly paid itself off!

Lastly, don't overcompensate. For the first few days give your dog lots of love and attention. It is quite common after recovering from a trauma or injury for dogs to develop behavioral issues. This can be from giving your dog attention and affection in abundance and on demand.  So don't overdo it, try not to make his recovery too big of a deal. You'll thank us for it later!

behaviour consults