TPLO Recovery on Day 1 Expectation's
January 2025 Blog Post TPLO recovery day 1 Post Op.
Your dog has just got home from surgery. They are still recovering from the Anesthesia. Some side effects are:
1. Low Blood Pressure
2. Low body temperature
3. Low Oxygen Levels
4. Slow breathing
5. Sedation
6. Seizure activity
Your dog may seem disoriented restless and whine. It may take several days for your pet to recover from Anesthesia. Most dogs recover in a day or two. Provide your dog a quiet contained place to rest. (The Healing Pen works great for this.) Keep children and other pets away from your recovering pet. Keep your pet warm. Give frequent bathroom breaks. Make sure your pet has access to water at all times. Start introducing small amounts of food. Your pet may be very unsteady on their feet. Be careful around stairs to prevent further Injury. Keep your pet under your control at all times. Begin your medication regime per your pet's surgeons Instructions.
Be prepared to monitor your dog's condition every two hours for first 24 hours at home. Your pet should never be left alone at this crucial time in their recovery. If you have help from another person do shifts caring for your furry friend. It will be easier and less stressful on you. To be a great caregiver you must also learn how to take care of yourself. Make sure you eat well, and rest as needed. This makes the recovery process easier on you and your furry friend. Being prepared for this recovery is not an option if you want to succeed in helping your furry friend recover.
Potential Complications to Watch Out For (0-24 hours)
- *Excessive bleeding*: If you notice heavy bleeding, swelling, or discharge from the surgical site, contact your vet immediately.
- *Difficulty breathing*: Monitor your dog's breathing and seek immediate veterinary attention if you notice any signs of distress, such as rapid breathing, panting, or blue-tinged gums.
- *Severe pain*: If your dog is showing signs of severe pain, such as whining, panting, or restlessness, contact your vet for guidance on adjusting pain medication.
- *Inability to urinate*: If your dog is having trouble urinating or shows signs of discomfort while urinating, notify your vet.
- *Vomiting or diarrhea*: If your dog vomits or has diarrhea, contact your vet for advice on managing these symptoms.
*When to Notify Your Vet*
If you notice any of the following, contact your vet immediately:
- Excessive bleeding or swelling
- Difficulty breathing
- Severe pain
- Inability to urinate, it may take up to 24 hours for your pet to void.
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Any signs of infection, such as Increased redness, discharge, or a foul odor.
For less urgent concerns, such as questions about pain management or feeding instructions, you can contact your vet during regular business hours.
In conclusion:
The first 24 hours after TPLO surgery are critical for your dog's recovery. By understanding what to expect and being aware of potential complications, you can provide the best possible care for your furry friend. Remember to monitor your dog closely and contact your vet if you have any concerns. With proper care and attention, your dog will be on the road to a successful recovery.
Should you have any concerns please reach out to the surgeon for proper treatment. We hope this gives you a clear understanding of what day 1 could look like. This does get better as time moves forward, the recovery is a slow process. We measure the recovery in days not weeks or months. Small successes should be celebrated on the road to recovery
Thank you
Ted Smallwood
The Healing Pen Store