Article Release: Issue 25
Release Date: April 30, 2025
Written By: Written by Dr. Dong-Woo Jin and Alyssa Rodriguez

Many pet owners don’t realize it, but recovery is one of the most critical—and vulnerable—parts of the surgical process. From the moment your pet leaves the operating room, our veterinary team works hard to ensure a smooth recovery, beginning with careful monitoring, real-time updates, and comprehensive discharge instructions to prepare you for your pet’s continued care at home.

It truly takes a team effort—from the recovery nurse to the pet parent at home—to help pets heal safely and comfortably. Here’s what to expect from hospital to home, and how you can play an active role in your pet’s recovery.

What to Expect During Recovery at ASC

Once your pet’s procedure is complete, they are carefully transferred from the operating room to our recovery area, where their cage is prepped with soft blankets and absorbent pads to keep them comfortable.

The recovery nurse is briefed on:

• The procedure performed
• Any complications
• Medications administered
• Postoperative care plans
• Expected discharge time

As your pet wakes up from anesthesia, we carefully monitor their breathing, vital signs, and comfort levels, ensuring they receive additional medications or treatments if needed. Most pets stay with us for about three hours post-surgery for fluid therapy, pain management, and observation—though this varies by age, procedure, and recovery progress.

Once your pet is stable, we’ll send you a photo update, call you with a report, and schedule a discharge time to go over home care instructions with you.

Common Concerns We Hear from Pet Parents

Fiction: “It’s been hours and I haven’t heard anything—something must be wrong.”
Fact: Surgery is just one part of the process. Preparation, anesthesia, and especially recovery take time. We prioritize your pet’s safety and comfort, and no news usually means your pet is recovering well. We’ll call as soon as they’re stable.

Fiction: “My dog hates confinement—they won’t do well here.”
Fact: We understand confinement can be stressful. That’s why our team provides gentle handling, extra walks, and comfort measures like soft bedding and calming reassurance. When medically safe, we may even discharge pets early to allow recovery at home.

How to Support Your Pet’s Recovery at Home

Post-surgical care doesn’t stop when you leave the hospital. Here’s how to continue supporting your pet’s healing journey at home—and what to watch out for.

Fiction: “My dog won’t tolerate a plastic cone.”
Fact: E-collars are essential for preventing licking, biting, or scratching the surgical site. Alternative options like soft cones, donut collars, or surgical suits may be available. Protecting the incision is worth the temporary inconvenience.

Fiction: “My dog is too energetic to stay calm.”
Fact: Activity restriction is crucial, especially after orthopedic surgery. We often prescribe sedatives like Trazodone and pain management medications like Gabapentin to help keep pets calm. Setting up a quiet recovery space at home can make this easier.

Fiction: “My pet is older and low-energy—they don’t need sedatives.”
Fact: Even older pets can become restless or uncomfortable after surgery. Sedatives help manage anxiety and promote healing, even in couch potatoes.

Fiction: “Pain meds make them groggy—I should skip them.”
Fact: Pain management is essential. Skipping meds can lead to suffering and delayed healing. Always follow your veterinarian’s medication plan and ask questions if you’re unsure.

Fiction: “My pet seems fine—I don’t need a follow-up appointment.”
Fact: Follow-up visits are important to check incision healing, adjust medications, and ensure recovery is on track. We also offer phone or video rechecks for clients traveling long distances.

Quick Myths & Facts About Pet Recovery

Myth: Pets bounce back quickly, no need for strict rest.
Fact: Controlled rest is critical. Healing takes time, even if they seem fine.

Myth: If they’re eating, they must be fine.
Fact: Appetite isn’t everything. Always follow post-op guidelines and recheck appointments.

Myth: Pain meds make them too groggy—better to skip them.
Fact: Pain management is essential for healing. Don’t skip it.

Myth: Licking helps them heal.
Fact: Licking introduces bacteria and delays healing. Use the e-collar or protective gear.

Myth: They’ll tell me if something is wrong.
Fact: Pets hide pain. Watch for subtle signs like restlessness or changes in behavior.

We’re Here for You—Every Step of the Way

Caring for your pet after surgery can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. Our team is here to guide you, support you, and answer your questions—from the moment your pet enters our care to the final recheck.

With teamwork, communication, and patience, we can help your pet recover safely and comfortably. Trust the process, trust your veterinary team, and most of all—trust yourself. You’ve got this, and your pet is counting on you.

With Compassion and Care,
The ASC Team