My dog breathes heavily after surgery, what should I do? - briefly
Heavy breathing after surgery is common and can be due to pain, anesthesia, or anxiety. Contact your vet if it persists for more than a day or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms like lethargy or loss of appetite.
My dog breathes heavily after surgery, what should I do? - in detail
Heavy breathing in dogs after surgery is not uncommon and can be due to several reasons, including anesthetic effects, pain, or underlying health issues. Here are some steps you should take:
-
Monitoring: Keep a close eye on your dog's respiratory rate. A normal resting rate for dogs is about 10-30 breaths per minute. If it exceeds this range, especially if accompanied by other symptoms like lethargy or loss of appetite, contact your veterinarian immediately.
-
Follow Post-Operative Instructions: Your vet will provide specific instructions for post-operative care. This may include administering pain medication, restricting activity, and ensuring proper hydration. Strictly follow these guidelines as they are tailored to your dog's specific needs.
-
Pain Management: Heavy breathing can be a sign of pain or discomfort. Ensure that you are giving any prescribed pain medications at the correct times and in the correct amounts. Do not give human pain relievers like ibuprofen or aspirin unless instructed by your vet, as they can be toxic to dogs.
-
Keep Your Dog Calm: Excitement or stress can increase breathing rate. Try to keep your dog in a quiet, comfortable environment with minimal disturbances.
-
Hydration and Nutrition: Ensure your dog is drinking enough water and eating as recommended by the vet. Proper hydration and nutrition are crucial for recovery.
-
Check Incision Site: Heavy breathing can sometimes be a sign of infection or irritation at the incision site. Check it regularly for any signs of redness, swelling, discharge, or unusual odor. If you notice anything abnormal, contact your vet.
-
Avoid Exercise: Restrict your dog from any strenuous activities that could increase heart rate and breathing until the vet gives the all-clear.
-
Regular Check-ups: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your veterinarian. They can monitor your dog's recovery closely and make necessary adjustments to the care plan.
If at any point you notice that your dog’s breathing becomes excessively rapid or labored, or if they start showing other concerning symptoms like vomiting, lethargy, or loss of appetite, do not hesitate to contact your veterinarian for immediate advice. It's always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your pet’s health.