Where I live the vets have used self-absorbing stitches for several years now. I have noticed how much more quickly my pets and temporary residents have recovered since the change to this type of incision closure.
I still think your baby will recover well. Stress can often cause potty accidents in these dogs. Just reward her richly when she does pee on the right spot and she will be back to her normal potty habits quickly. I find rewarding good behavior works much better than scolding for less than perfect actions.
Gracie acted like she never had surgery by the 4th day out. I may be considered a neglectful mom but we never used a post op collar or even a onesy. She was with me almost every minute of her recovery and licked the site very little. We have fairly low furniture so if she jumped up it was not a huge deal and I would put her back down when she was ready to get off. I didn't want to stress her by confining her or having to scold her if she was just acting as her usual self. She did fine. I think most animals are pretty smart and won't push themselves beyond what they feel up to. Since Gracie's incision was very secure it was really not an issue. I know with the stitches that have to be removed there is somewhat more of a chance of pulling a stitch though unlikely under normal conditions.
I'm sure Crystal is getting the best of care with both her dad and mom home to care for her. |