Preparing Your Dog’s Recovery Area

If you’ve decided to pursue dog cruciate ligament surgery, check out these tips to prepare your dog for surgery. It’s best to prepare your dog’s recovery area before he comes home from surgery.

Your Dog’s Recovery Area

The first several days (day 1 to day 6) are the toughest so prepare a comfy and enclosed area for your dog. It’s best to place your dog’s recovery area in the living room where the family spends the most time so you can keep a close eye on his recovery. If you’re lucky to have your bedroom on the first floor, as walking up and down the stairs is a no-no, add an additional area next to your bed. If not, take a look at the tips below.

Choose a Quiet Location

If you have young children or several other dogs, choose a quieter area where you can still monitor your dog’s recovery. If needed, you can block off an area to prevent young children or other dogs from peeking in and disrupting your post-op dog.

Gates (Enclosed Area)

When you’re home, an enclosed area with freestanding gates are extremely helpful. Your dog can stretch out under your supervision. When setting up an enclosed area, choose foldable gates that are sturdy. The metal ones can be easily knocked over while a post-op dog tries to turn around. Personally, I recommend North States Industries Superyard In-Out 8 panel gates for larger dogs. For medium and smaller dogs, the 6 panel version is recommended. North States gates are made of plastic with wider panels, which withstands bumping and pushing, meaning it will not fall over. Plus, the panels have non-slip pads, which prevent scratching of hardwood floors. And the icing on the cake is the price ranges between $60 to $80 — a bargain!

Crates (A Must-Have)

Crates are still a must, especially when you are away from home, because your dog should keep movement to a minimum during the first few days. If your dog is crate trained, continue to use his regular crate. My dogs have a larger crate (1 size up from their normal crate size) for extra room, which can be helpful for post-surgery dogs to turn around. Plastic and wire crates work fine, but I would not recommend fabric crates since they are unsteady and can easily flip over.

RELATED: Crate Training

Bedding

Cover the enclosed area with a padded and non-slip rug. This prevents chances of slipping during recovery. During the first few days, add an easily washable bed, which makes things much easier when accidents happen. The same goes for your dog’s crate. Add a non-slip rug and then an easily washable bed.

Towels

Keep a stack of towels close by to wipe up water spills, vomit and accidents. In a pinch, you can use a towel as a sling.

Before you know it, your dog will be putting weight on his leg and recovery will fly by!

READ ALSO: Dog Cruciate Ligament Surgery