Fun and Safe Ways to Keep Your Dog Entertained During the Post-Surgery Period

Bringing your furry friend home after surgery or after an injury is a relief, but it’s crucial to ensure their recovery is both safe and enjoyable. It can be a stressful time for both you and your pup.  The post-surgery period is a time when your dog often requires rest and limited activity, but that doesn’t mean they have to be bored or restless.

We were fairly lucky (and also not lucky…) that when Sienna had her FHO surgery she also had PTSD, so it meant that she was calm and wasn’t likely to get into any “trouble”.  However, it also meant that she was less willing to participate in her required recovery activities. 

One of the most frequently asked questions in several of the surgery and injury recovery groups I am a member of is how to relieve their dog’s boredom and keep them entertained during their recovery.  In this blog post, we’ll explore fun and safe ways to keep your dog entertained during the post-surgery period, helping them stay happy and engaged throughout their recovery journey.

Understanding the Post-Surgery Period

During the post-surgery phase, your dog’s physical activity will be likely be restricted to aid in their healing process. It’s essential to consult with your veterinarian about specific limitations and instructions for your dog’s recovery, including rehabilitation and medication schedules. By following their guidance, you can help create an environment that promotes healing while providing enjoyable activities.

As you read on, please keep in mind that different surgeries and injuries have different recovery requirements and different limitations.  While there are many activities and games that will be suitable for most dogs and most recovery requirements, not all are. It is extremely important that you follow your vet’s instructions. 

It is also important to keep in mind their your dog may not feel like themselves for the first little while.  They may be in pain, they may feel weird from the medication, or just be groggy.  Your dog will probably require a lot of downtime and rest during their recovery period.  However, when your dog is feeling up for it, some of the ideas below can greatly help with their overall recovery by introducing some gentle activity and keeping them stimulated and engaged. 

Mental Stimulation Activities

1. Puzzle Toys and Interactive Feeders: Engage your dog’s mind by providing puzzle toys and interactive feeders. These toys require problem-solving skills and keep your dog mentally stimulated, even when physical activity is limited.  See our post on Stuffable Toys and Enrichment Activities: Unleashing Fun and Engagement with Kongs, Toppls and other Stuffed Dog Toys or these ideas in the post From Boredom to Brilliance: Discover the Magic of Mental Stimulation Games for Dogs or this DIY enrichment activity in the post Stuffed Toilet Paper Rolls. 
2. Nose Work and Scent Games: Tap into your dog’s natural instincts by engaging them in nose work and scent games. Hide treats or toys around the house and encourage your dog to use their sense of smell to find them. This activity provides mental stimulation and is a great way to keep them entertained.
3. Teaching New Tricks and Obedience Commands: Use this recovery period to teach your dog new tricks or reinforce obedience commands. Mental stimulation through training exercises helps keep their mind sharp and focused.  Tricks like Nose Touch, target training and place training are usually fairly safe activities for many recoveries, but there are plenty of options out there depending on what your dog is allowed to do. 

Gentle Physical Activities

1. Controlled Leash Walks: Take your dog for short, controlled leash walks to provide them with gentle exercise. Be mindful of their energy level and any specific instructions from your veterinarian. A leisurely stroll around the block can help keep them engaged while not exerting themselves too much.
2. Hydrotherapy and Swimming: If your veterinarian approves, consider hydrotherapy or swimming sessions. These low-impact activities are excellent for rehabilitation and provide a fun and safe way for your dog to enjoy some physical activity.
3. Sniffari: Take your dog to a new location (if they can comfortably ride in the car) and take a slow, controlled leash walk and allow them to sniff all the new smells.  If your dog is unable or having difficulty walking, consider using a wagon or buggy. 

Environmental Enrichment

1. Creating a Cozy and Comfortable Recovery Space: Designate a comfortable space for your dog’s recovery. Use soft bedding, familiar toys, and soothing music to create a calm environment that promotes relaxation and comfort.
2. DIY Sensory Garden or Enrichment Area: Create a small sensory garden or enrichment area where your dog can explore and engage their senses. Include different textures, scents, and safe obstacles for them to navigate.
3. Music or TV: Play calming music for them, or if they have a TV show they enjoy (or even Dog TV, if that doesn’t get them too aroused), consider putting that on
4. Car Rides: If your dog can comfortably ride in the car without getting over aroused, consider taking a car ride (with the windows down, if weather permits!) to allow your dog to get a change of scenery and sniff new smells. 

Bonding and Socializing

1. Supervised Playdates with Calm and Friendly Dogs: If your veterinarian approves and your dog is comfortable with it, arrange supervised playdates with calm and friendly dogs. Socializing with other well-behaved dogs can provide mental stimulation and social interaction.
2. Gentle Interaction with Familiar Humans and Family Members: Spending quality time with your dog and engaging in gentle activities such as gentle petting, cuddling, and grooming can strengthen the bond between you and provide comfort during their recovery.
3. Massage: If your rehabilitation plan allows it, consider adding in massage.  Not only will it help your dog heal, but it is also a great way to bond!

Monitoring and Safety Tips

1. Observing Signs of Discomfort or Complications: Keep a close eye on your dog’s behaviour and watch for signs of discomfort, pain, or any complications during their recovery. If you notice anything concerning, contact your veterinarian immediately.
2. Adapting Activities Based on the Dog’s Condition: Every dog is unique, and their recovery may vary. Pay attention to their energy levels and adapt the activities accordingly. If they seem fatigued or in pain, scale back on the activities and consult your veterinarian for guidance.

Conclusion

Keeping your dog entertained during the post-surgery period is crucial for their well-being and recovery. By providing mental stimulation, gentle physical activities, environmental enrichment, bonding, and socializing opportunities, you can make their recovery journey more enjoyable. Remember to prioritize their safety and follow the guidance of your veterinarian. With these fun and safe ways to keep your dog entertained, you’ll help them have a happy and successful recovery.

By incorporating these fun and safe activities into your dog’s post-surgery routine, you can help keep them entertained, mentally stimulated, and happy during their recovery journey. Your love, care, and attention will contribute to their overall well-being and a successful recovery.