After the Procedure

At Front Range Animal Hospital, we send almost all of our surgery and dental patients home on the day of the procedure.  We feel our patients are much happier at home.  Owners usually pick up their pets between 3-5 pm.  We close at 5:30 pm.

When you pick up your pet, we will go over post-operative instructions including specific guidelines on food and water, any post-op medications, and what exercise is permitted during the recovery period.  We will instruct you on care of the surgical site. 

Do not be surprised if your pet seems tired or does not have much of an appetite for the first 24 hours post-op.  He also may not have a bowel movement for a day or two, and that is OK.  Be sure to let us know if he is chewing, licking, or scratching at the surgery site.  This may disrupt healing or cause an infection.  Also, be sure to let us know if you think your pet is uncomfortable or painful.

If your pet has a bandage, make sure that it stays dry, and let us know if it bothers your pet or gets wet.  Most bandages are changed 2 days post-op.  If your pet has external stitches or staples, they are removed at 14 days post-op.  Please schedule an appointment with the technician for this.  Do not hesitate to call us if you have any questions about your pet’s recovery.