How do I know how much exercise my pet can handle after surgery?

After your pet has had an operation, you may wonder how quickly he can resume his normal exercise routine. Jackie Davidson, a Professor at Louisiana State University, says the amount of activity a pet can handle is determined by the type of surgery involved.

Davidson states, “as a general rule, you want to keep them … quiet … usually until the stitches come out.”

With minor surgeries such as spaying, Davidson says your pet could be back to his lively self in about a week. But with orthopedic, neurologic, and other major surgeries, recovery could take several weeks or more. While your pet’s recuperating, keep him as quiet as possible - indoors, in a clean, dry environment. Outdoors, your pet could tear out stitches or pick up an infection.

– Dr. Andrea Looney, DVM for the “Purina® Animal Instincts” Podcast Series

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