Caring for Your Dog After FHO Surgery

FHO Post-Op: The First 24 Hours

Immediately following Femoral Head Ostectomy (FHO) surgery, your dog will likely experience grogginess due to the anesthesia. The primary focus during this critical initial period is to ensure their comfort, effectively manage pain, and strictly limit their activity. This foundational care sets the stage for a successful recovery.

Strict rest is paramount in the first 24 hours. Any undue movement can compromise the surgical site and delay healing. It is also crucial to closely monitor the incision site for any signs of swelling or discharge, which could indicate complications. Administering pain medication precisely as prescribed by your veterinarian is essential to keep your dog comfortable and prevent unnecessary stress.

Before your dog returns home, prepare a quiet, comfortable recovery space. This area should be easily accessible but isolated from household commotion. Ensure fresh water is readily available within this space. Confirm the exact medication schedule and any specific instructions with your veterinarian before leaving the clinic.

Pain Management & Medication

Controlling pain is crucial for your dog's comfort after FHO surgery. Effective pain management also encourages gentle, controlled movement, which is vital for preventing stiffness and promoting the healing process.

Always follow your veterinarian's exact dosage and schedule for all prescribed medications. Deviating from this can lead to inadequate pain control or potential side effects. It is critical to never administer human pain relievers to your dog, as many are toxic and can cause severe adverse reactions. Closely observe your dog for any signs of discomfort, such as whining, reluctance to move, or unusual aggression, and report these to your vet.

Veterinarians commonly prescribe Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) like Carprofen or Meloxicam to reduce pain and inflammation. Gabapentin may be used to address neuropathic pain or provide mild sedation. In the immediate post-operative period, short-term opioids such as Tramadol or Buprenorphine might be prescribed for more intense pain relief.

Incision Site Care

Maintaining a clean and dry incision site is fundamental to preventing infection and promoting optimal healing after FHO surgery. Proper care minimizes complications and supports a smooth recovery.

Preventing your dog from licking or chewing the incision is critical. An Elizabethan collar (E-collar), often called a "cone of shame," should be worn consistently to protect the surgical area. Inspect the incision daily for any signs of redness, swelling, heat, or discharge. These can be indicators of infection or other issues. Avoid bathing your dog until your veterinarian explicitly clears it, as moisture can hinder healing and introduce bacteria.

Perform a daily visual inspection of the incision site. If advised by your vet, gently clean around the incision with a warm, damp cloth, ensuring not to disturb the stitches. Confirm that the E-collar is worn at all times, especially when unsupervised.

Seek immediate veterinary attention if you observe excessive redness, swelling, or heat around the incision. Pus-like or foul-smelling discharge is a strong indicator of infection. If the incision opens or stitches come undone, it requires urgent care. Additionally, watch for systemic signs like fever or lethargy, which could signal a more widespread problem.

Activity Restriction & Rehabilitation

Controlled and gradual activity is paramount for proper healing and muscle strengthening following FHO surgery. This structured approach prevents re-injury and helps restore mobility.

For the initial weeks post-surgery, strict crate rest or confinement to a small room is essential. This limits uncontrolled movement that could jeopardize the healing hip. Leash walks should be restricted solely to bathroom breaks, ensuring minimal strain on the surgical site. Adhering to a prescribed physical therapy regimen is crucial for rebuilding muscle mass and restoring range of motion.

Confine your dog to a small, non-slip area to prevent slips and falls. Initially, use a support sling or towel under their hindquarters during short walks to provide stability and reduce weight bearing on the affected leg. If instructed by your vet, perform passive range of motion (PROM) exercises gently to maintain joint flexibility. Gradually increase the duration and intensity of walks only as advised by your veterinarian.

A crate or playpen provides a safe, confined space for recovery. A support sling or towel is invaluable for assisting with mobility during the early stages. Non-slip mats or rugs should be placed on all slick surfaces to prevent accidental slips that could cause injury.

Contact your veterinarian immediately if your dog exhibits sudden lameness or refuses to bear weight on the operated leg. Increased pain during gentle movement is also a warning sign. Overexertion can lead to swelling, pain, and a significant setback in recovery, so always err on the side of caution.

Nutrition & Hydration

A balanced diet and adequate hydration are fundamental pillars supporting your dog's healing process and maintaining their energy levels during recovery from FHO surgery. Proper nutrition provides the building blocks for tissue repair.

Maintain your dog's regular feeding schedule to ensure consistent nutrient intake. It is crucial to ensure constant access to fresh, clean water at all times. Hydration is vital for all bodily functions, including healing. Avoid overfeeding your dog to prevent any unnecessary weight gain, as excess weight places additional stress on the recovering hip joint, potentially hindering progress.

Continue feeding your dog their regular, high-quality dog food. Your veterinarian might recommend specific joint support supplements, such as glucosamine and chondroitin, to aid in cartilage health, though these are typically considered complementary to the primary recovery plan. Always ensure a clean water bowl is readily available and refilled frequently.

Potential Complications & Warning Signs

Being aware of common post-FHO complications and knowing when to seek veterinary attention is crucial for your dog's well-being. Early detection and intervention can prevent minor issues from becoming serious problems.

Infection at the surgical site and excessive swelling are primary concerns following FHO surgery. Closely monitor for any signs of pain, lethargy, or a loss of appetite, as these can indicate underlying issues.

Seek immediate veterinary care if you observe any signs of infection, as detailed in the "Incision Site Care" section (e.g., pus, foul odor, excessive redness). Severe, uncontrolled pain that isn't managed by prescribed medication warrants urgent attention. Persistent vomiting or diarrhea can lead to dehydration and other complications. If your dog is unable to urinate or defecate, it could indicate a serious problem requiring immediate veterinary intervention. Finally, any sudden regression in mobility or weight-bearing ability after initial improvement should prompt a call to your vet.