How active can my pet be when it has a bandage on?
After surgery, your pet will need to be inactive for a period of several weeks. Your pet may feel better and want to play with other animals or people in the house but it is essential to keep them separated unless you can fully supervise all interaction. It is very important that activity is limited to very short leash walks for the sole purpose of your pet going to the bathroom.
Do I need to do anything to the bandage or splint?
It is very important to keep the splint clean and dry. If you must walk your pet when it is wet outside, place a plastic bag around the splint to keep it dry. Do not leave the plastic bag on the bandage all of the time or moisture will develop in the bandage. Do not allow your pet to chew on the bandage/splint. Sometimes it may be necessary to use a plastic Elizabethan collar to ensure that your pet does not chew the area.
Is there anything that I should watch out for?
Please check your pet’s toes daily for swelling. If they become cool and/or puffy, it is possible that the bandage is impairing the circulation of the limb. If this occurs, please call our office immediately because the bandage will need to be changed. Also, the bandage/splint may slip. As long as it is still supporting the limb and you are able to check the toes for swelling then it does not need to be changed. Your pet may develop some chafing of the skin around the top of the splint. If this happens, just add some padding, baby powder or cornstarch to the affected area. Also, if the bandage/splint becomes damp or foul smelling, please have it changed immediately. If you have any questions, please contact Animal Specialty Group, Inc.. Our staff is always happy to help.
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