DISCHARGE
Usually the same day for routine procedures. On some occasions, the next day.
We would encourage you to call the clinic after 3 pm to arrange a time for discharge. We will endeavour to have a veterinarian personally go over any medications and aftercare required but on some occasions one of our experienced vet nurses will perform the discharge. The surgical vet will usually have already phoned you soon after the finish of the procedure and if not able to discharge your pet personally will be more than happy to schedule a time for follow up. Printed post-operative notes and instructions will be provided.
Once back at home, it is important your pet be kept warm in a quiet and confined area inside, where they can be observed from time to time, especially overnight until they are recovered from the drowsiness of the anaesthesia. In most cases they can be given access to water and a small meal later that evening if they are up to it. If your pet has a wound or bandage it is important that it be kept clean and dry and your pet kept quiet and confined. It is important wounds and bandages are not licked or chewed and often an Elizabethan collar or modified bucket is required to prevent this.
Please ensure your pet is able to eat and drink with this on. If you are at all concerned with your pets’ condition or state of the surgical site please do not hesitate to call us. If your pet appears to be in pain, please call us. On most occasions we will have administered an injection for post-operative pain control at the time of the surgery. We also may dispense further medication for pain control.
DO NOT give your pet any human pain killers or anti-inflammatories as many of these are extremely toxic to animals. Some pets may require an extended period of restricted exercise after surgery – for example after anterior cruciate surgery.
Please do not hesitate to call us if you have any questions or concerns either prior to, or after surgery. We will usually schedule a revisit for monitoring the post-operative recovery. If stitches are present these are usually removed at a free visit about 10 to 14 days post-surgery.