Dear VetBabble,
Is this incision site looking swollen? My dog got re-sutured on 23rd August, after her surgery was performed on 9th July. I think it may be infected again. What should I look for and how can I help with the healing process?
We understand that you are concerned about your dog, Chhutki, and her incision site. Recovering from surgery can be a difficult time for both pets and their owners. We are more than happy to provide you with some advice on how to keep an eye on her healing process, what to watch for, and when to consult your veterinarian.
Section 1: Signs of Infection or Complications
Knowing the signs of infection or complications is crucial for ensuring the proper healing of your dog’s incision. If you notice any of the following symptoms at the incision site, it might be necessary to schedule a visit with your veterinarian:
- Redness or swelling
- Discharge or pus draining from the incision
- Foul smell
- Excessive warmth around the incision area
- Persistent bleeding
- Increase in pain or discomfort for your dog
If Chhutki’s incision site appears to be healing well, with no signs of infection such as redness, pain, swelling, or discharge, then the bumpy areas you noticed could be sutures under the skin that have yet to dissolve. For more information, you can consult our article “Lumps and Bumps: When to Worry.”
Section 2: Caring for Your Dog’s Incision at Home
Proper care at home is essential for the successful healing of your dog’s incision. Here are some tips on how you can help ensure a smooth recovery for Chhutki:
- Keep the incision clean and dry.
- Monitor your dog’s behavior closely, making sure she does not excessively lick, chew, or scratch the incision site.
- Use an Elizabethan collar (cone) to prevent your dog from disturbing the incision.
- Follow your veterinarian’s instructions regarding medication, activity restrictions, and any special diet requirements.
For more details on how to care for Chhutki’s incision, you may find our article “How to Treat your Dog’s Wounds at Home” helpful.
Section 3: Monitoring Your Dog’s Overall Health
While the primary focus is on your dog’s incision, it is essential to monitor her overall health during the recovery period as well. Here are some general health concerns to be aware of:
- Monitor your dog’s appetite, as a lack of appetite may indicate an issue.
- Keep an eye on your dog’s energy levels and general demeanor.
- Pay attention to your dog’s bathroom habits, ensuring there is no diarrhea or constipation, or blood in the stools.
- Look out for signs of other infections, such as eye conditions. Our article “Common Eye Conditions in Dogs” describes what signs to watch for in detail.
- Assess any other lumps or bumps that may develop. Our article on “Cat Bite Abscesses: What They Are and What to Do!” may offer additional information, even though it focuses on cats, as abscesses can also occur in dogs.
By closely observing Chhutki’s incision site, monitoring her overall health, and practicing proper home care, you can help ensure her recovery is smooth and successful. However, we strongly recommend consulting with your veterinarian if you have any concerns or notice any signs of complications.
