Need post-op advice for Wiener

[jillc]

My dog wiener just came home from the hospital on Friday following his back surgery on Tuesday. He seems to be doing great, but that may be the problem. He is walking fairly well and absolutely hates his crate! It is hard to keep him so confined when he definitely wants to be up and going. I take him out of the crate and hold him for awhile, but he wants to move around. Any suggestions as to how to keep him on bedrest when he wants to be mobile???? I'd appreciate any advice available. Thanks.

[TessieMom]

Sending some rays to you too. :rayz: :rayz: :rayz: It is hard to keep them crated when they want to be out and doing things, but it is essential. You have to be tough. You might get a kong or bone or something that will help with the boredom of the crate! I spent a lot of time holding dogs too.
Good Luck!

[doxie4u]

found DodgersList (www.dodgerlist.com) you need to check out this site. it is dedicated to help people with doxies and their backs.

It is IMPERATIVE that you keep your dog crated for 4-6 weeks after surgery. You do not want to risk a chance of more injury from swelling of the spinal cord. If they will not tolerate a crate you can set up and x-pen made small to keep them in. You could also try a baby playpen. You have to do "tough love" for the sake of continued improvement.

You can get a Kong and freeze it with treats and peanut butter in it to keep them busy; get some new toys to spike their interest.

I know it is very hard to do; I've been through it but they only time they should be out is to use the bathroom! If you take them outside be sure to put a leash on them so they won't take off after a squirrel or some other critter.

Dodgers List will be a great source of infomation and support for you.
Good luck and healing rays sent to you and your little baby. :rayz: :rayz: :rayz:

[dutchman]

You've already received some very good advice. Sending those crate rest and full recovery rays. With a little luck he will soon adjust to the fact that he has to spend so much time in his crate. Just remember the time invested in proper care now may pay off with no problems in the future.

Good luck,

[Patt]

Very good advice, sending healing :rayz: :rayz: :rayz: to Wiener. :heart:

[minicooper]

I have no experience with back surgery, but you have received some great advice!

Sending :rayz: :rayz: :rayz: :rayz: :rayz: for a speedy, total recovery

[lotsadox]

That's probably the hardest thing to do. Once they start feeling better, they want to get active. Amanda used to bounce up and down in her crate at meal time. She scared the living daylights out of me! :yikes: But she came through okay and is now 16 and still getting around fairly well. I don't really have any suggestions except to keep him crated all the time except for potty breaks. I know it's hard, but sometimes it's the best thing.

[Spunky's Mom]

Here are some :rayz: :rayz: :rayz: for Wiener. I :pray: that he will heal properly. I wish you the best of luck concerning keeping him crated. Iam suffering with the same situation as far as the crate issue goes. My Spunky is very demanding and makes my life as miserable as possible when he is in there. I've been carrying him around with me and sitting with him as much as I can. Hopefully you will have better luck than me.

[LUVMYGUNNER]

I would follow what Dodgers list says if a X-Pen is not an option then I would put him in a small bathroom with a baby gate his crate and food and water, also a peepee pad.