Activities For Dogs After Being Neutered/Spayed

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Introduction

The process of operating on an animal to prevent them from breeding and reproducing is called neutering (for male animals) or spaying (for female animals). This practice is commonly done among animals, particularly dogs who serve as household pets. One of the main reasons why neutering or spaying is done is to prevent pet homelessness in the long run. However, there are other benefits that are brought about by this sterilization process, such as longer life, prevention of some diseases (for example, prostate-related conditions) and certain positive changes in behavior. However, this procedure is considered a major surgery, which means that post-surgery care should be observed. 

Brain Games

Popular
0 Votes
Any Day
Moderate
Normal
1 hr
Items needed
Dog toy
Treats
Activity description

One of the main first things that veterinarians will tell dog owners after surgery is to prevent their dogs from performing any strenuous physical activities. Since neutering and spaying fall under surgery, there is a risk of damage if your dog decides to move around too much. Unfortunately, dogs are designed to be constantly stimulated. If you can’t do this physically, what you can do is provide your dog with some mental stimulation. Perhaps the best way to do this is through the use of brain games. There is a wide range of toys available in most pet supply stores. These mentally-challenging games come in all difficulty levels and are sure to keep your dog busy while they recover from the surgery. 

Step
1
Choose a toy for your dog
Brain games for dogs are easily available in most pet stores and supply shops. If you do not already have one for your dog, just go for a quick visit to the store and choose a toy or two for your pooch. Choose a toy that does not require too much movement and one that is easy to figure out.
Step
2
Help your dog play
After you have chosen and bought the toy, let your dog have some fun with it. In order for your dog to understand how the toys work, you first need to do a demonstration of it. For instance, Nina Ottosson has a line of dog toys such as the Hide N’ Slide, where you hide a treat in a compartment and your dog has to slide it to retrieve the treat.
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Strolling

Popular
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Sunny Day
Free
Easy
20 - 30 min
Items needed
Pet stroller
Food
Water
Activity description

Going for a walk is a typical routine that dogs and their owners do, one that is recommended to help keep your dog healthy and stimulated. However, after undergoing a surgery like neutering or spaying, even this simple and seemingly task becomes a whole lot difficult for your pooch. The term that veterinarians always use is “restricted activity”, which is exactly what will happen after your dog comes out of the procedure. Luckily, there are ways for you and your dog to still go on your regular “walks” even post-surgery by use of various devices, such as a stroller. 

Step
1
Acquire a dog stroller
To enable your dog to still enjoy some fresh air outdoors without risking their recovery, you may use a stroller. Pet supply shops offer strollers for dogs of all breeds, shapes and sizes. All you have to do is pop by the nearest pet store and get one where your dog will fit in. In case you do not want to spend some cash, you can take an old baby stroller and use that instead, provided that your dog is small and will fit.
Step
2
Stroll around
When you have your dog stroller ready, place your furry baby inside and get out of the house. Take a stroll around your neighborhood or go to the nearest park and go people-watching. You may even head to a dog park so that your dog can have some interaction with fellow canines. Just make sure that your dog will not try to jump out of the stroller or do something that may harm them. Also, have food and water ready in case your dog gets hungry during your stroll.
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Massage

Popular
0 Votes
Any Day
Free
Easy
30 min
Items needed
Towel or blanket
Activity description

Most people get a massage after a long, stressful day and they just want to relax. Just like humans, dogs also enjoy getting massages. A massage is a level up from the usual belly rub or pat on the back. Aside from the fact that it feels good, there are several other benefits that are brought about by a massage. It helps reduce anxiety and stress, which is something that your dog might have especially after a major surgical operation. It also aids in developing some bodily functions. Most importantly, by giving your dog a massage, you start to build trust and form a connection with your pooch. 

Step
1
Calm your dog down
Unlike massages on humans, dog massages should be done delicately and carefully, especially on a dog that has just been neutered or spayed. Before you start the massage, you need to make sure that your dog is in a calm and submissive state. Giving your dog a treat or some other form of positive reinforcement will help.
Step
2
Gently pet your dog
Once your dog is calm and composed, start to pet your dog gently all over the body. This will help your dog relax, which will then let you start the massage. While you pet your dog carefully, talk to your dog in a soft, tender tone. This will help ease any tension that your dog might have.
Step
3
Massage each area of your dog's body
Work on each area of your dog’s body, starting with their neck. Make gentle circular motions around this area and assess if your dog is enjoying the massage or not. You will know if your dog starts to resist your touch. Then, work on all the other parts of your dog’s body, such as the shoulders, back and the legs, until you cover all bases. Remember to do this very gently and to avoid the area where the incisions were made.
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More Fun Ideas...

Nose work

Nose work is one of the most recent trends that are used to stimulate and keep dogs entertained. What’s good about this activity is that dogs have a keen sense of smell, which they can use to their advantage. Hide a treat somewhere and have your dog find it. Just remember to choose a small area for the game because you need to keep your dog’s movements limited. 

Be a couch potato

Having gone through a major surgery such as neutering or spaying, the best activity is sometimes no activity at all. To not put your dog at risk, take it easy and simply spend the day being lazy together. Play a good movie and cuddle with your furry buddy. This gesture may be simple but your dog will surely appreciate the quality time together. 

Conclusion

Getting your dog neutered or spayed can be a drag, especially if your dog is one who loves moving around and engaging in activity. However, it is a necessary part of dog ownership and can bring about many benefits as a result. There are many ways to keep your dog busy and entertained while they recover from their surgery, as seen on the list above.Â