Post-op Remedies
By Susan Beal DVM

Greetings,
You can use the remedies and suggestions from the Post Neutering post of last week with your friend's pup after her spay surgery.

The gist of that conversation was the use of Rescue Remedy liberally for both caregiver and pup, before and after the procedure. If the veterinarian is willing, provide a bottle to the clinic and ask that they use it.

I use Arnica routinely in all of my postoperative cases. I usually use a 30c potency, and give the remedy as they are recovering from the anesthesia (clip nails, clean ears, give Arnica,....). If the veterinarian is not willing to do that, then I suggest that your friend give the pup a dose of Arnica when she returns home. Perhaps she could use 30c or 30x, one dose (several pellets either dry or mixed in water) every twelve hours for three doses,....

The use of other additional remedies depends solely on the individual case, and the responses and reactions to the procedure.

If the incision needs care, I use Calendula tincture 1:10 in water, and then topical Calendula gel/ointment. If there is a great deal of bruising, I also use Arnica ointment to the shaved area of the belly (not directly on the incision, though).

Remember to think positive thoughts, as our critters pick up and reflect our anxiety and concerns. If we are crazed, they will worry.
Hope this helps,

Sincerely,
Susan Beal DVM