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Care Guides

Growth Removal/ Laceration Care Guide

Taking proper care of your pet after surgery is vital to their speedy recovery. Luckily, Mancelona Veterinary Hospital has the steps to make it easy.

Taking Proper Care Of Your Pet After Surgery

Care After Growth Removal/Laceration

  • Give all medication as directed.
  • If you chose the option for IV fluid therapy, your pet will have a bandage on their front leg. The bandage can be removed about an hour after they get home.
  • After your pet goes home following surgery, offer small amounts of water initially. If there is no vomiting, then ¼ to ½ of the regular diet can be fed. Resume normal feeding the day following the procedure. It is not uncommon for a pet to have a limited appetite for the first 1-2 days following the procedure. If vomiting occurs, withhold food and water until the following morning.
  • Please limit activity for 7 days following surgery to allow time for the skin and tissues to heal. Avoid jumping on and off furniture.
  • Dogs should be leash walked during the first week after surgery.
  • No bathing, swimming, or grooming for 14 days.
  • Keep your pet quiet for about 1 week after surgery.
  • The incision should be checked daily, keeping watch for redness, discharge, and swelling. If anything is noted, please get in touch with the clinic immediately.
  • Do not allow your pet to lick at the incision. E-Collars are available for purchase to prevent your pet from licking and are highly recommended. If your pet licks, they may remove the sutures prematurely and cause trauma to the area.
  • Your pet may not need a suture removal depending on the procedure performed.
  • If suture removal is required, please schedule accordingly, as noted on the receipt. The suture removal is performed by the technician, who will confirm that the healing process is near complete and remove the sutures. There is no charge for this appointment.
  • If your pet has a drain tube, it will need to be removed in 3 days.
  • If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us.