Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy, or TPLO surgery, is a very common surgical procedure to repair your dog’s knee to restore efficient function, movement, and mobility. While this procedure is common, there are many steps you’ll want to take to help your furry best friend have a smooth and successful recovery. Today, your friends at Eagle Animal Hospital in Riverside share four handy tips to help your dog successfully recover from TPLO surgery. Learn more, and contact us today if you think your dog could benefit from this procedure.
Keep Surgical Wounds Cleaned and Protected
One of the most important things you can do for your dog after TPLO surgery is to keep their surgical wounds clean and protected. This means cleaning the area around the incision site daily with a mild soap and water solution. Additionally, it is essential to keep their e-collar on for the first seven to 10 days following their procedure. The e-collar, or cone, is designed to prevent your dog from licking the incision or chewing at their stitches.
Restrict Activity to Promote Efficient Healing
Another crucial step in your dog’s TPLO surgery recovery is to restrict their physical activity. This means keeping them confined to a small area (preferably with soft flooring) and limiting their exercise for at least six weeks after surgery. While some very mild activity may be okay, walking long distances, running on hard surfaces, jumping, and playing too roughly can all interfere with the healing process and lead to complications.
Maintain Your Dog’s Comfort
It’s also important to make sure your dog is as comfortable as possible during their recovery. This means keeping them in a quiet, calm environment, preferably in one area of your home, so they do not need to go up and down stairs. Additionally, you’ll want to provide them with a clean, soft bed or mat to sleep on. You may also need to give them pain medication as prescribed by your veterinarian to help manage their pain.
Follow Your Veterinarian’s Post-Op Instructions
Finally, be sure to follow all of the post-operative instructions from your veterinarian. This will help ensure that your dog heals properly without any complications. These instructions may include things like continuing to restrict your dog’s activity, coming in for follow-up appointments, and monitoring their progress.
By following these four tips, you can help your dog recover from TPLO surgery as smoothly and successfully as possible! Visit us online to find more great tips and information about TPLO surgery, and if you have any questions or concerns, be sure to talk to your trusted Kansas City veterinarian, as they will be able to advise you on what is best for your individual pet. Contact Eagle Animal Hospital today!