IVDD / Disc Surgery Aftercare Instructions
A day-by-day recovery guide for ivdd / disc surgery: what to expect, how to care for yourself, and when to call. Free to read and print.
What to expect
Home Setup
- •Non-slip surfaces everywhere, yoga mats, rubber-backed rugs
- •Block access to stairs, furniture, and slippery tile/hardwood
- •Sling or harness to help them walk if needed
- •Crate or small room for confinement
IVDD / Disc Surgery recovery, day by day
Strict Rest
- Strict crate or confined room rest. No jumping, running, or stairs.
- Help your pet stand and go outside on a leash for bathroom breaks only
- Ice the surgical area 10-15 min, 3x daily, with a thin towel barrier
- Give pain medication BEFORE it wears off to stay ahead of pain
Incision Care
- Check incision twice daily for swelling, redness, or discharge
- E-collar must stay on at ALL times to prevent licking
- Some bruising around the surgical site is normal
Controlled Movement
- Leash walks for bathroom only. Continue strict rest.
- Continue ice therapy as needed for swelling
- Avoid slippery floors. Use rugs or mats
- Suture check at 10-14 days
When to call your provider or 911
- •Call your care team today if you notice: Excessive bleeding from the incision that doesn't stop
- •Call your care team today if you notice: Incision opens, separates, or has pus/foul odor
- •Call your care team today if you notice: Your pet is extremely lethargic or unresponsive
- •Call your care team today if you notice: Persistent vomiting or diarrhea for more than 12 hours
- •Call 911 now if you notice: Difficulty breathing or blue/pale gums
- •Call your care team today if you notice: Refusal to eat or drink for more than 24 hours after surgery
- •Call your care team today if you notice: Collapse or inability to stand
When in doubt, call your clinic. For a medical emergency, call 911.
Recovery milestones
- Day 14
Ongoing Recovery Review
Review any remaining symptoms or restrictions with the care team before changing your routine.
- Day 14
Toe-Touching
Consistently using the limb when walking
- Day 14
Recheck X-Rays
Bone healing confirmed on radiographs
For clinics
Stop photocopying aftercare sheets.
QR Rx sends this exact ivdd / disc surgery recovery plan to every patient, branded to your practice, opened by a QR code. It checks in automatically, answers post-op questions, asks for a review at the right moment, and brings patients back for their next visit. The aftercare you already owe every patient, doing the work of keeping them.
HIPAA compliant. No card, no contract.