After Surgery Instructions

After your pet's spay or neuter surgery, it's important to know the following information about how to keep your pet comfortable and healthy during the recovery period.

Medication: A long-lasting injection of pain medication is given at the time of surgery and if needed, additional medicines given prior to release. If your pet is experiencing discomfort over the next few days, please call the clinic at (312) 644-8338 (ext. 350 or 351).

Post-Surgical Instructions:

• No food is allowed until tomorrow morning.
• Provide only a small amount of water (¼ to ½ cup) beginning at 9 p.m. tonight.
  Too much water may cause nausea or vomiting.
• Provide a normal serving of food and water tomorrow.
• Mild exercise such as walking is allowed but do not allow the animal to jump or run as this may cause the incision to open.
• Do not allow the animal to chew or lick the incision. If you notice excessive licking,
  you may need to purchase an cone collar at your local pet supply store or veterinarian.
• Check the incision daily. Contact the clinic if you notice any discharge, swelling,
  or opening at the incision site.
• Do not bathe or apply any flea products for 10 days.
• Your pet did not receive any external sutures, so removal is not necessary. There are two layers of internal sutures, which will dissolve, and a surgical glue has been applied on your pet’s skin.
• If your pet is female, a green tattoo* has been placed next to the incision to make it easy to identify that your pet was spayed.
• Post-surgical care will be provided at no charge until the incision heals.
  
  Please call the Clinic to schedule an appointment (312) 644-8338 (ext. 350 or 351).

*Click here to learn about Mandatory Tattooing with Spay Surgeries

Vaccinations Given at Time of Surgery:

If your dog or cat received a first distemper combination vaccine today, it is the first in a series of at least two vaccinations to provide protection against common disease. In order for this vaccine to be effective a booster needs to be scheduled in approximately 3 weeks. This must be done by your own veterinarian.