Tips for care after orthopaedic surgery

[wetwiped]

Following a traumatic accident and surgery to repair two open fractures in his back leg, we are hoping to bring our brave mini schnauzer home tomorrow.

We've done some research and have a crate ready with new bedding etc as he will need to be restricted for the first 6 weeks minimum. Husband is wfh and adult daughter has just finished uni so he will have someone with him constantly for care and company.

If anyone has any tips for managing, having been through similar themselves, I'd be really grateful.

Morning bump

Whenever mine has been on enforced rest for weeks at a time I have emptied a room out of things he could jump on and put a mattress on the floor so I could sit with him. This gave him more room and he tended to settle with me there.

Do you have a wider support network you can lean on - crate rest isn't easy, and if you have some trusted friends or family who can come in and take over dog care to give your DH and DD some time off then I am sure it would help. it all depends on how old your dog is, and how happy he is to be left alone. if he needs attention to keep him mentally occupied when he is awake, then i'd suggest that it will be mostly your DD who will be doing the care, and it is a full on occupation. I dont want to worry you, rather just prepare you for what is involved! Lots of puzzle toys, training ideas and chews can help pass the time.

Crate rest has never been too bad for my dogs. Usually the first few days they are feeling a bit rough and painkillers etc may keep them sleepier than usual.

I would let the dog out of the crate if I was sitting still so they may be on lead but could sit beside me on a mat and feel less restricted. So evenings spent cuddling on the floor with them or example. When I was working on my pc they would be by my feet on the floor.

Some dogs do seem to chill into it ok. Do use puzzle feeders,lots of bones and chew toys. Gentle trick training- tricks depending on what part of the body is recumberating. So in your case front leg and head movement tricks. Shake , nod, hide their eyes, lower head etc.

As he gets better you may be able to take him out and about in the car for a change of scene and view. Make sure the car is safe of course.

We also got a buggy for ours and took him out for rides which he loved but this may be too late as you may need to acclimatise your dog to the buggy first.

I guess he is allowed out for wee walks? What is his limit on these?

This too will pass - hope he is feeling better soon