How to Care for a Puppy After It's Neutered

How to Care for a Puppy After It's Neutered. Neutering a dog reduces the chance of it developing certain cancers and diseases, helps reduce pet overpopulation and can curb negative behaviors, such as aggression, marking and roaming. While it is a relatively safe procedure, neutering surgery requires some necessary postoperative care to prevent stitches ripping open and infections setting in. By following specific care guidelines, knowing what to look for and recognizing problems, your puppy can make a full and healthy recovery.

Step 1

Prepare a warm, dry place indoors for your puppy to rest for a few days after the surgery.

Step 2

Follow your veterinarian's instructions regarding when your puppy can eat and drink after the surgery. Keep in mind, though, that some puppies may take longer to regain their appetite, and they should not be forced to eat.

Step 3

Watch your puppy to see if it's licking the surgery site. If it is, contact your veterinarian.

Step 4

Contact your veterinarian if your puppy hasn't eliminated within two days after surgery. Take your puppy for short walks to see if it will eliminate, but don't exercise it too hard.

Step 5

Keep your puppy from playing for one week so that the surgery site doesn't reopen. Also keep your puppy away from unspayed females, since your dog can still get females pregnant for up to 30 days after surgery.

Step 6

Look over the surgery site every day. If you notice signs of infection, such as discharge, swelling, heat or a bad odor, contact your veterinarian.

Step 7

Avoid bathing your pet for 10 days after the surgery.

References

• Oregon Veterinary Medical Association
• ASPCA