Question:
How soon after surgery will I be able to take care of my dog?

I have a 75lb American Bulldog mix. He is a handful, but a very good dog. I have had a problem making arrangements for him...he will be staying @ his normal "Charlie's Canine Camp" from Sept 3-9 then they go on vacation. I have my surgery on Sept 4. I am having my surgery laproscopically. I have made arrangements with the vet for another 5 days...but I feel bad having him picked up from one place and basically dumped at another. Do you think that by the 9th I will be able to take him on walks? Or do you think I should hire someone to come to my house and walk him for a few more days? Any help would be appreciated. I am single and will basically be going through a lot of this myself. ([email protected]) Thanks in advance for your help!    — Ilene M. (posted on July 21, 2001)

July 21, 2001
I would want my dogs around for company when I get home. I would ask a neighbor to walk him if needed, and keep a hold on the other location in case it gets to be too much. I put in a fence and doggie door to make life easier. Mine are self walkers.
   — bob-haller

July 21, 2001
I too am looking forward to the companionship of my dog when I get home, but she's an 8lb toy dachshund :) Can you set up a lead say attached to your porch that you can simply clip your dog out on when he needs to go out? Walking will be good for you when you feel up to it, it's something you and your dog can do together. The biggest issue may be whether or not he is a giant lap puppy *G* No one needs 75lbs of anything jumping up on them after surgery, but perhaps he has his own bed or pillow that could be put near your recliner? Worst case scenario you wind up with a few accidents that can be cleaned up.. I think that's a small price to pay for the companionship of your beloved pet. Please feel free to email me if you like, I too am single and my pet is a big part of my life. ~Peace!
   — Joscelin

July 21, 2001
I have a 75 lb Samoyed who drags me for a walk. If your dog is a good walker and doesnt drag you, you will be fine. I was left alone about 13 days post op with my dog, cat, and sons, 2 1/2 and 5 and I had no problems.Early post op I was afraid of the dog puling too hard and hurting me...so I just let her out in the yard a lot.
   — Kathy831

August 9, 2001
Hello, I have a 60 pound Basset hound who thinks that she is a lap dog, and of course I allow her to be. I have not yet been approved for surgery but I do know that I am going to be having it and I do walk my dog because we live in an apartment. One step that I have started to take is we are going to a trainer to curb some of her bad behavoirs, such as pulling and jumping up on people. She now has to sit before we do anything such as getting on her leash or going on the door. She has stopped pulling me and is much nicer to live with.
   — Monica C.