Make sure to follow all of your vet’s instructions
Read Time: 4 minutes
Emergencies don’t end when you walk out of the veterinary clinic. Whether your pet has been treated for an illness, injury, or trauma—or has just returned home after an evacuation or travel ordeal—what happens next is just as important. Recovery at home requires attention, patience, and plenty of love. Here’s how to help your pet heal safely and comfortably in the days and weeks following an emergency.
#1
Create a Calm, Comfortable Recovery Space
Your pet needs peace and quiet.
Set up a dedicated recovery area away from foot traffic, loud noises, and other pets. Use soft bedding, keep lighting gentle, and provide easy access to food, water, and a litter box or potty area. This space should feel safe and secure to help reduce stress and support healing.
Tips:
- Use gates or pens for dogs to restrict movement
- Keep cats confined to one quiet room
- Avoid stairs or jumping surfaces
- Add familiar items like toys or blankets for comfort
#2
Follow Your Veterinarian’s Instructions Exactly
Aftercare directions are not one-size-fits-all.
Whether your pet had surgery, was treated for dehydration, or received emergency medication, your vet’s discharge instructions are tailored to their condition. Follow dosing schedules precisely, and don’t stop medications early—even if your pet appears to improve.
What to watch for:
- Pain, swelling, or changes in behavior
- Vomiting, diarrhea, or appetite loss
- Unusual fatigue or restlessness
- Missed bowel movements or urination
When in doubt, call your vet rather than wait.
#3
Monitor Their Mood and Behavior Closely
Pets often hide discomfort.
Be extra observant in the days after an emergency. A change in how your pet moves, sleeps, eats, or interacts could be a sign of pain or emotional distress. Behavioral changes—like clinginess, hiding, or aggression—are common after stressful events but should improve gradually.
Supportive care may include:
- Extra cuddles and gentle reassurance
- Minimizing stimulation or activity
- Using calming sprays, music, or anxiety wraps
- Slowly reintroducing normal routines
#4
Support Physical Recovery With Limited Activity
Rest is essential.
Even high-energy pets need downtime to heal. Avoid long walks, fetch sessions, or free play until your vet gives the all-clear. If your pet is on crate rest or restricted movement, enrich their environment with puzzle toys or treat-dispensing feeders to prevent boredom.
Ask your vet about:
- Gentle range-of-motion exercises (for orthopedic cases)
- Short, supervised outdoor breaks
- Gradual reintroduction of stairs or ramps
#5
Maintain a Nutritious Diet and Hydration
Nutrition fuels recovery.
Your pet may have specific dietary needs after an emergency. Some pets require bland food (like boiled chicken and rice), while others may need prescription diets. Make sure they’re drinking plenty of clean water and avoid giving treats or new foods unless cleared by your vet.
Quick tip:
Use a syringe or wet food to encourage hydration if your pet isn’t drinking much.
#6
Attend All Follow-Up Appointments
Recovery is ongoing.
Even if your pet seems fine, follow-up visits allow your veterinarian to monitor healing, adjust medications, or catch complications early. These checkups also give you a chance to ask questions and get professional reassurance during the recovery process.
#7
Be Patient—Healing Takes Time
Your calm energy matters.
Pets feed off our emotions. If you’re frustrated or anxious, they may feel it too. Remember that recovery isn’t always linear—there may be setbacks or days when your pet seems off. Trust the process, lean on your veterinary team, and give your pet the time and support they need to fully bounce back.
We’re Here When You Need Us
At Dr. Phillips Animal Hospital, we know that pet emergencies can be overwhelming—but recovery doesn’t have to be. Our team is here to support your pet’s healing journey every step of the way, from discharge to full recovery. If you have concerns about your pet’s progress, need help with medications or aftercare, or just want peace of mind, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re just a call or click away.
