Crescent Springs Animal Hospital understands that surgery is a very stressful time for your pet. They do everything possible on their end to ensure your pet has the smoothest procedure, but there is plenty you can do, too. That's why Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky's premier animal clinic has put together this guide on how you should prepare your pet for the operation and what to do afterwards:

Before Surgery:

• Vaccinations: It is important that your pet isn't at risk of infecting other patients or becoming infected themselves. Make sure that he is up-to-date on his vaccinations before operation day.

• Fasting: Like humans, pets should undergo most surgical procedures on an empty stomach. Ask your veterinarian for the ideal fasting period (usually 12 hours prior to surgery) and when water can be safely consumed. To ensure your pet doesn't hunt or receive outside food, keep him indoors during the fast, or at least on a leash under your supervision. Give your pet plenty of time to go to the bathroom before coming to the animal clinic on operation day.

  

After Surgery:

• Rest: Prepare a warm and quiet place for your pet to recover. It may take a few days for him to fully recover, even after a small operation.
• Meals: Offer a light meal of white meat or rice, as well as plenty of water. Remember that it is normal for your pet to have a lessened appetite following general anesthetic.

• Bathing: It will not be safe to bathe your pet for up to two weeks following the surgery. If necessary, bathe your pet a few days beforehand.
• Follow-Up Care: Keep all bandages and wounds clean and dry, and notify the pet hospital if bandages become excessively dirty. Follow all medication and post-operation instructions as given by your vet.

You can rest assured that your pet will be under the best possible care at Crescent Springs Animal Hospital. To set up an appointment, give them a call at (859) 331-6608, or visit them online to learn more about their services.