Dog shaking on day 3 post surgery?

I'm feeling pretty anxious right now and could really use some advice. My 4-year-old Golden Retriever, Max, just had surgery three days ago to remove a small tumor, and although the procedure itself went smoothly, I've noticed he's been shaking on and off since yesterday. It's not constant, but when he does, it's enough to be noticeable, and it breaks my heart. He's eating and drinking alright, but he seems a little more tired than usual, which the vet said could happen. I've been following the post-op care instructions to the letter, keeping him comfortable and making sure he gets his meds on time. I'm just really worried because I've never seen him like this before and can't help but fear the worst. Has anyone been through something similar or have any idea why this might be happening? Any advice would be deeply appreciated. Thank you!

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Answer

Hello there! I'm sorry to hear your dog is experiencing this. Shaking after surgery can be caused by several things, and while it's often normal, it's good to keep an eye on it.



Post-surgery shaking can be due to lingering anesthetics in your dog's system or simply being cold, as their ability to regulate body temperature can be affected. Pain and stress can also lead to shaking, especially if your dog seems uncomfortable.



To help your pup at home, keep them in a warm, calm environment and offer some gentle, reassuring attention. Make sure they're eating, drinking, and their incision site looks as expected—clean and without excessive redness or swelling.



However, if the shaking is constant, intense, or accompanied by other symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, refusal to eat, or a change in the incision's appearance, it could be a sign of pain, infection, or a reaction to medication. In these cases, seeking veterinary advice is important.



Keep a close eye, and if your dog's condition doesn’t improve or you notice any worrisome signs, I recommend booking a video consult with us at Dial A Vet. We’re here to help you and your furry friend feel better, so don’t hesitate to reach out!

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