When your dog needs an operation: My experience, and how you can support recovery with kindness.

Poppy post op at Oakley Vets, Caversham

In this blog, I want to share our recent experience with Poppy, my lively 9-year-old dog who recently needed a small operation — some dental work, nothing major, but enough to bring a wave of worry and a lot of learning.

Whether your dog is heading into surgery or you're caring for them post-op, I hope this story offers reassurance, practical tips, and above all, the reminder that with a little patience, connection, and kindness, healing becomes a time to nurture trust — not just recover from a procedure.

Preparing for Poppy’s Op — and the Post-Op Wobble

Even though Poppy’s healthy as an ox (and acts like it most days), I was nervous. Surgery — no matter how routine — always brings questions. Would she feel okay? Would she rest enough? What if she hated the meds?

The team at Oakley Vets in Caversham were amazing. Kurt explained everything clearly, and I knew she was in safe hands. But once home, it was over to me — to help her feel safe, cared for, and as calm as possible.

Rest, Routines, and a Bit of Love Island

Coming home, Poppy was groggy and definitely not her usual sprightly self. Her brother Manu was bouncing around, excited to see her, but I knew she needed quiet.

I made a cosy, quiet spot on the sofa (with permission, of course) and we hunkered down for some proper chill time — it was also a good excuse to catch up on Love Island, truth be told.

If your dog’s recovering, think about where they feel safe. Somewhere warm, quiet, and near you — a place where they can just be, without noise or pressure.

Food, Sleep, and Midnight Check-Ins

That first evening, I offered Poppy half her usual dinner — soft, bland food to ease her tummy. I used soaked kibble, bone broth, and some cooked veggies - of course, I still had pumpkin in the freezer from last October!

We kept an eye on everything: food, toilet breaks, energy levels. Poppy did have a bit of an upset tummy (pretty normal after a general anaesthetic), but a sprinkle of Pumpkin Powder helped, and she was back to normal in no time.

At night, we stuck to our usual routine — she and Manu sleep in our room, each in their own bed. It meant we could check on her without fuss, and she had us close if she needed comfort.

Activity and Enrichment — Without Overdoing It

For the next week, it was on-lead sniffy walks, slow and steady. No running, no jumping — which was a challenge because Poppy loves to chase. But we swapped out zoomies for sniffing, lick mats, and soft food rewards.

I didn’t use a crate, but for some dogs, having a safe rest space is really helpful. If you need to crate your dog post-op, it’s worth making that space familiar and positive well in advance.

Meds, Patience, and a ‘Travel Pillow’ for Dogs

Poppy’s great at taking tablets — it’s something we practised over time using kibble and play. That made post-op meds much easier.

We didn’t need a cone, but I have used soft inflatable collars before (they look like travel pillows!) — much gentler on the dog and furniture. Manu once wore one and thought it was his personal headrest.

Moments of Connection — and a Lot of Primula

During her recovery, I realised how much patience matters. Preparing meals, managing rest, and keeping her calm when she just wanted to play was a full-time job. Sometimes I think she looked at me like, “What’s the big deal?”

We played gentle games, did some low-key training, and used lots of soft treats (shout out to Primula — a classic in our house).

Mostly, I just sat nearby, offering quiet presence and calm. These are the moments where connection deepens — when we show up for our dogs without asking for anything in return.

Thinking About Your Dog’s Recovery?

If your dog’s having surgery or just coming home from one, my advice is this:

Take it slow. Stay close. Trust that with kindness, calm, and a few soft treats, you’re doing everything they need.

You’re Not Alone — I’m Here to Help

I hope Poppy’s story offers some reassurance and useful tips. If you need support during your dog’s recovery — whether that’s calming enrichment ideas, managing restlessness, or simply knowing how to support your dog emotionally — I’d love to help.

✨ Share your journey with #healingpawstogether — or just drop me a message if you want to talk things through or for more great advice catch up on my chat with the author of Vet Says Rest - Laura Carter https://youtu.be/5jMo0O9Zkcg?si=-v0i2VuC4p2HqUzZ

Healing takes time, but it’s also a chance to connect, smile, and simply be there for our dogs — one peaceful moment at a time.