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Putting a T-shirt on your dog after surgery is a great way to prevent them from licking their wounds. It can also be more comfortable for your dog than an e-collar. You can buy a dog recovery suit, or make your own with a comfortable T-shirt and scissors. To put the T-shirt on your dog, first make sure they are comfortable and relaxed. Then, carefully fit their limbs into the sleeves and pull the shirt over their stomach, being careful not to disturb the incision. After the wound has been covered, tighten the end of the shirt, and check that your dog is comfortable.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | To protect surgical sites, wounds, stitches, sutures, incisions, skin conditions |
| Material | Cotton, lycra, spandex, nylon, soft fabric |
| Fit | Adjustable, comfortable, snug, loose opening at the bottom |
| Sleeve length | Long, short |
| Ease of use | Easy to put on, machine washable, reusable |
| Fastening | Velcro, straps, ties, elastic bands, snap closure |
| Position of dog | Standing on four limbs |
| Wound care | Prevents licking, scratching, biting, keeps wound clean and dry |
What You'll Learn
Choose the right shirt size and material
When choosing a shirt to use after your dog's surgery, it's important to select the right size and material.
Size
First, you'll want to measure the length of your dog's underbelly. You can do this by measuring the distance from the collar area, under the belly, to the front of the hind legs. You can use a fabric measuring tape or a piece of string to get the proper measurement. Then, compare this to the size chart of the shirt you're considering. It's recommended to choose a shirt that's a little larger than your dog, as this leaves room for any last-minute alterations.
Material
Cotton is the preferred material for a dog's post-surgery shirt as it is soft, fresh, breathable, and stretchable. Cotton is also easy to wash and dries quickly. If you opt for another fabric, ensure it is thin and light, allowing air to pass through easily. A blend of cotton and spandex is another good option, as it provides a comfortable and adjustable fit.
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Prepare the dog's limbs and body
The first step in putting a T-shirt on your dog after surgery is to ensure that the dog is in a comfortable position. It is crucial that the dog does not feel threatened during the process. You should ensure that your dog is standing on all four limbs. This will make it easier to pull the T-shirt over their body and fit their limbs into the sleeves.
Next, you need to be mindful of the wound. Carefully fit the dog's limbs into the sleeves, being cautious not to disturb the incision. The purpose of the T-shirt is to protect the surgery wound, so it is important not to worsen the stitches.
If you are using a DIY T-shirt, you will need to tighten the end of the shirt carefully. Most shirts designed specifically for dogs will have a closed end, but DIY shirts will have a loose, open end. If left untied, the dog will be able to access their wound, and the function of the garment will be lost. Tie the end of the T-shirt in a knot, but be careful not to tighten it too much, as this could restrict your dog's breathing.
Finally, check that your dog is comfortable in the T-shirt. If the garment is too tight or restrictive, you may need to remove it.
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Be mindful of the wound
When putting a T-shirt on your dog after surgery, it is important to be mindful of the wound. Your dog's wound will need care in the days following the operation to ensure it heals properly and avoid infection. Before leaving the vet's office, you should receive guidelines on how to clean the wound, including how often to clean it, what to use, how to apply any antibiotic creams, and how to change bandages. It is important to follow these instructions to ensure your dog heals quickly and to minimise the risk of infection.
Some wounds may be closed with glue instead of sutures or stitches, so the wound will need to be kept dry. In this case, you will need to check the wound regularly to ensure it is not infected. All wounds carry a risk of infection, which can become severe. Your vet will have taken steps to reduce this risk during surgery, but once your dog leaves the clinic, they will be exposed to germs in the environment. The wound is a potential entry point for bacteria and other pathogens that can lead to infection.
Signs of infection include redness and swelling around the wound. A certain amount of redness and swelling is normal in the first few days after surgery, but if the redness is increasing or spreading beyond the initial site, this could indicate infection. Other signs of infection include discharge or bleeding from the wound. A small amount of clear fluid immediately post-surgery is normal, but if there is thick, foul-smelling, yellow or green discharge, or if the wound is bleeding heavily, contact your vet.
It is also important to prevent your dog from interfering with the wound. Your vet may have provided an Elizabethan collar (cone) or a suit to prevent your dog from licking or chewing the wound. This should be kept on at all times, even when sleeping and eating, for the period prescribed by the vet.
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Tighten the shirt carefully
Once you have carefully dressed your dog in the T-shirt, ensuring that the wound is covered, it is time to tighten the shirt. This step is crucial, especially if you are using a DIY T-shirt. Most shirts designed for dogs have a closed end, but with a DIY shirt, the end of the cloth is typically loose and open. If left untied, the shirt will not serve its purpose of protecting the wound. The wide opening at the bottom will allow the dog to reach the incision and start licking.
So, to avoid this, you can either buy a shirt specifically designed for dogs that have had surgery, or you can use your own T-shirt. If you are using your own T-shirt, make sure to tie a knot at the bottom to secure it. However, be careful not to tighten it too much, as this may restrict your dog's movement or even cause suffocation. The shirt should be snug but not too tight, allowing your dog to move freely and breathe comfortably.
If you are using a shirt with sleeves, such as a long-sleeved T-shirt for forelimb wounds, make sure the sleeves are not too tight. You can roll them up a little if needed. Additionally, if your dog is male, you can simply tuck the straps for the hind legs under the shirt, so you won't have to remove it when he needs to urinate.
Remember, the goal is to provide protection for your dog's wound while also ensuring their comfort and safety. Always monitor your dog's behaviour and comfort level after putting on the shirt. If they seem uncomfortable or restricted in their movement, loosen the shirt or consider a different option, such as a surgery suit designed for dogs.
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Check the dog is comfortable
Once you've put the t-shirt on your dog, it's important to check that they are comfortable. This is crucial for your dog's safety and wellbeing, and it will also help to keep the t-shirt on for the required amount of time.
Firstly, check that the t-shirt is not too tight. If it is, it may restrict your dog's movement or even cause them to suffocate. You should be able to fit at least one finger between the t-shirt and your dog's body. If the t-shirt is too tight, remove it and try a larger size or a different type of post-surgery garment, such as a dog surgery suit.
Secondly, ensure that the t-shirt is not disturbing the incision site. The purpose of the t-shirt is to protect the wound, so if it is rubbing against the stitches, your dog will be at risk of further complications. Check that the t-shirt is not too small or too tight, and that there are no loose ends that could work their way into the wound.
Thirdly, make sure that your dog is not showing any signs of discomfort. If they are whining, whimpering, or seem unusually subdued, they may be in pain or discomfort. Check the t-shirt for anything that could be causing irritation, such as loose threads or rough patches. If your dog continues to seem uncomfortable, remove the t-shirt and consult your veterinarian for advice.
Finally, monitor your dog's behaviour over the coming hours and days. If they are struggling to move around or perform everyday tasks, the t-shirt may be too tight or restrictive. Observe their eating and drinking habits, and make sure they are able to go to the toilet without difficulty. If the t-shirt is causing problems in any of these areas, you may need to try a different size or type of garment.
Remember, the most important thing is your dog's comfort and safety. If you have any concerns, do not hesitate to contact your veterinarian for advice.
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Frequently asked questions
First, ensure you have the right-sized shirt ready. You can buy a shirt specifically designed for dogs post-surgery, or you can make a DIY shirt using a comfortable T-shirt and scissors. If you're making a DIY shirt, measure and alter the shirt to fit your dog, and cut holes for the sleeves. Once you have the shirt, get your dog into a comfortable position where they feel relaxed. Carefully fit their limbs into the sleeves and pull the shirt over their stomach, being mindful not to disturb the incision. After the wound is covered, tighten the end of the shirt, ensuring it's not too tight, and check that your dog is comfortable.
T-shirts can help prevent infections around the incision by keeping it clean and dry. They also discourage your dog from scratching, licking, or biting their wounds, which can delay healing. T-shirts are more comfortable for dogs, allowing them to move freely and play with other dogs. They are also easier to maintain and less likely to irritate the wound.
It's important to choose a T-shirt made of soft, breathable fabric such as cotton. The size of the T-shirt should be appropriate for your dog's size, with enough room for movement but not too loose. It's a good idea to have multiple sets of T-shirts so you can change them regularly to keep the wound clean.
In addition to using a T-shirt or E-collar to protect the incision, provide a comfortable, relaxed environment for your dog to recover. Monitor their behaviour and watch for any signs of discomfort or distress. Keep their activity level low to moderate to aid in the healing process, and ensure they have access to food, water, and any necessary medications.
