If your pet has suffered trauma and has a broken bone, the animal may need a surgical procedure. Pet owners should immediately take the animal to a veterinarian who specializes in Dog Orthopedic Surgery in Ft. Belvoir VA. After an orthopedic examination, the vet may want to schedule surgery as soon as possible. If your dog needs this type of surgery, read the frequently asked questions below so you’ll know what to expect.
Q.) Is an orthopedic surgical procedure safe for dogs?
A.) There are certain risks with any type of surgery, but an orthopedic surgery is one of the most frequently performed surgeries for dogs. In addition to bone fractures, orthopedic surgery is often performed on dogs that need hip or knee replacement or joint surgery. During the surgery, while the animal is under anesthesia, the dog’s vital signs will be watched continually. Before the surgery, the veterinarian will explain the entire procedure to the pet owner and answer any questions that are asked.
Q.) What can a pet owner expect when the pet comes home after the surgery?
A.) This type of surgery has a long recovery period because the broken bone has to have sufficient time to heal. The dog may be required to stay in bed for up to two weeks after the surgery. The veterinarian who performs Dog Orthopedic Surgery in Ft. Belvoir VA, may also recommend limited exercise for the dog for up to four months. When a dog has this type of surgery, a pet owner should make sure the pet has a quiet place to rest indoors. If there are other dogs in the household, they should be kept away from the patient during the recovery period. The pet that’s recuperating from surgery will need to be still, and the other dogs may want to play. The veterinarian may prescribe prescription medications for the dog to take after having surgery. Pet owners should carefully follow the dosage instructions on the bottle.
Fort Hunt Animals Hospital specializes in various surgical procedures for pets including spays, neuters, tooth extractions, growth removal, and orthopedic surgery. To learn more information about this clinic, pet owners can visit the website their Facebook page.
