Even though we wish for our dogs to have healthy teeth for the remainder of their lives, with some instances, dental issues lead to tooth extraction. If it is as a result of advanced periodontal disease or an incident that led to a cracked and infected tooth, extraction is necessary to prevent pain and other issues. These operations, where a tooth is extracted from its socket with the help of anesthesia, not only become important for the health of your dog but also need proper care while recovering.
Your dog will require special care after the operation so that recovery becomes a smooth one. Here's the ultimate guide on how to care for your dog best after a tooth extraction.
1. Allow Your Dog to Rest
Your dog will be sleepy from the anesthetic after the procedure. You need to give them a quiet and comfortable place to rest. Put them in their kennel or bed, just ensure they have some quiet where they can sleep. Most dogs will recover from anesthesia within a day, but there are others that will be sleepy for 48 hours. Monitor their condition closely, and if they fail to mend after 24 hours, seek advice from your vet.
2. Administer Medications as Directed
Your dog will be in some pain following the surgery, which will persist for as much as five days. While it is hard to see your dog suffering, it's necessary to give them any pain relief that is prescribed. Your vet will probably prescribe pain medication and antibiotics. Be careful to follow instructions on the dosage—do not try to change the dosage yourself, as these drugs can have extreme effects.
The antibiotics will ensure no infection within the surgery site, so ensure you continue giving them to them on schedule. If your dog shows that they are continuously in pain or discomfort, contact your vet for further guidance.
3. Change Their Diet
Your dog will likely not eat or even hydrate themselves once a tooth is extracted due to their mouth pain. To help their healing process, give them soft, mush foods instead of hard kibble. Gravy or warm water can be utilized as to make their usual food soft enough to swallow. The food employed should be familiar to your dog, thus avoid veering from the usual material to prevent gastrointestinal distress. Provide a light meal to your dog within a couple of hours after arrival. If still your dog hasn't eaten after 24 hours, consult your vet for guidance.
4. Restrict Physical Activity
While your dog can regain its energy in a few days, it is necessary to limit physical exertion during recovery periods. Although light walking and play are okay, do not let your dog perform any strenuous activity until the return visit postoperative. This is to ensure they don't compromise the healing process or cause undue stress to the operative site.
5. Monitor the Surgical Site
While you shouldn't mess around in your dog's mouth, you should keep an eye on the surgical area for warning signs of complications. Your veterinarian will most likely use dissolvable sutures that will take weeks to absorb. Some bleeding or minimal blood around your dog's food is acceptable, but swelling, drooling, or pain can be a sign of complications. If you see these symptoms, have your veterinarian check them out.
6. Keep an Eye Out for Complications
Keep an eye on the recovery process for possible complications. Some pain is to be anticipated, but any indication of excruciating pain, refusal to eat, or growling on being touched may indicate something is wrong. Also, any uncommon swelling or profuse drooling is cause for concern. If something does not feel right, contact your vet to confirm your dog is recovering as expected.
7. Follow up with the Postoperative Checkup
Finally, be sure to bring your dog in for their post-op appointment with their vet. Your vet will at this time be able to check over the surgical area and ensure that your dog is recovering properly. If all looks good, they'll provide your dog with the clearance to resume regular activities.
Conclusion
It's not simple to take care of your dog after a tooth extraction, but it is a crucial part of the healing process. With the right medication, patience, and attention to their needs, your dog will be on its way to complete recovery. While the process will be difficult initially, healed, your dog will lead a more comfortable, painless life. Be sure to follow the veterinarian's instructions and keep a close eye on your dog for optimal results.
