How To Help Your Dog Recover From A Tooth Extraction

Posted on: 5 April 2023

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If you're like most pet owners, when your pet has health problems, it can be very stressful for you. Sometimes, dogs will need to undergo oral surgery because they have a bad tooth.

If your pet is scheduled to have a tooth extraction, you probably want to know how you can take care of them once the surgery is over. Here are some of the best ways you can take care of your pet after they have had a tooth extraction.

How to Manage Pain

Managing your dog's pain after a tooth extraction is probably something you are concerned about. Once the anesthetic wears off, your pet will be in some form of discomfort. Your vet will prescribe pain medication that your dog can take to ease their discomfort.

This type of medication should work, and you will see the effects. If your dog seems unresponsive to pain medication, you need to call the vet. 

Watch Closely

Once your dog has had their extraction, it's always a good idea to keep a close eye on them. Keep them near to you so that you can watch them at all times. You will notice that your dog has swelling around their mouth, and you may see some blood. This is normal. 

If the bleeding seems to be excessive and your dog is drooling or refusing to eat over the next few days, you should speak with your veterinarian about it as soon as possible.

What Can Your Pet Eat

Once your pet is home, you need to follow the instructions given by your vet about what they can and cannot eat. You are likely to get detailed feeding instructions, and you should heed that advice.

Most likely, your vet will recommend that your dog eats wet and soft foods following their extraction. Bear in mind that your dog should not be allowed to chew bones or even their chew toys during this time of recovery.

Reduced Activity

Your pet will likely be very groggy and drowsy once they have gotten home. They will want to sleep. This may continue for a few days, but eventually, they should get their energy back. 

If you feel that enough time has passed and your pet is not regaining their energy and is not interested in even going for short walks, they may be in excessive pain, and you should talk to your vet about it.

Contact a vet to learn more about pet oral surgery