Dog recovery after gallbladder surgery

Help, I’m really worried about my dog’s recovery after gallbladder surgery. Our sweet 7-year-old lab, Max, underwent the operation a week ago, and while the vet said everything went well, I’m still seeing some things that have me concerned. He’s been more lethargic than usual, which I expected to some extent, but it seems like he's lost interest in his food as well. I'm sticking to the vet's diet plan and trying his favorite treats, but he just sniffs them and walks away. He’s also been having some trouble getting comfortable when lying down; he keeps shifting around as if he's in pain. I’m worried sick—has anyone else gone through this with their pup? Are these normal post-surgery behaviors, or should I be rushing Max back to the vet? Thanks in advance for any advice; I just want to get my happy, tail-wagging buddy back to his old self.

Answer

Thanks for reaching out about your dog's recovery after gallbladder surgery. It's great that you're proactive about their healing process. After this type of surgery, it's important to provide a calm and restful environment for your furry friend. Ensure they have a comfortable space where they can relax without too much noise or disturbance.



Some common post-surgery symptoms may include mild lethargy, a reduced appetite, and some discomfort around the surgical site. These are generally normal for a few days after the surgery. To help with recovery, make sure your dog has plenty of fresh water and offer smaller, more frequent meals, ideally bland and easy-to-digest foods, unless advised otherwise by your vet.



Be attentive to any changes! Watch for signs such as vomiting, diarrhea, unexpected swelling or redness around the incision, or a refusal to eat for more than a day. These could indicate a complication requiring further attention. If you notice any of these symptoms, or if your dog seems excessively tired or in pain, it’s important to consult a veterinarian promptly.



If you’re ever unsure or need more personalized guidance, I recommend scheduling a video consult with one of our vets at Dial A Vet. They can offer tailored advice based on your dog's specific situation.

Embark Breed + Health Dog DNA Test

Recommended for Dog Owners

Embark Breed + Health Dog DNA Test

18,899 Reviews

The most comprehensive dog DNA test. Screen for 270+ genetic health risks and identify breeds from 350+ breeds, types & varieties.

$199$139Save $60

Free US Shipping · Veterinarian Developed

Next available appointment

Loading…