“Your dog will need to have weeks of crate rest.” These are the words no one wants to hear from their vet, particularly when your dog is having to undergo an operation and you’re worried about the outcome. But it’s a hugely important part of post-operative care. Yes, it is daunting and it will be challenging. But with some planning, you can make it a more manageable and enjoyable experience for both you and your dog. Here are five things I prioritised in the first few weeks of crate rest with my own dog.

1. Prepare your dog for crate rest

If you have enough notice, think about what your dog’s going to need to get used to before and any helpful things you can teach them. Do they need to get used to being in a crate or behind a gate? Dogs who are not used to being confined or who get frustrated behind barriers can end up hurting themselves trying to get out which is not something you want when they’re meant to be resting. If you think your dog may need some help in this department, then prioritise gradually making them comfortable and creating a positive association with the space they’re going to be living in. Here’s a good crate training video if you need some help.

What about wearing cones and taking medication? These are things some dogs may never have experienced so again, it’s worth gradually getting them used to wearing different things and swallowing different shapes and sizes. Top tip: coating tablets in something yummy like dog-friendly peanut butter and letting your dog take it from you, rather than you trying to force it down, can work wonders.

Finally, do they pull on the lead which is going to make gentle walks difficult? I rarely do street walks with my own dog as he’s not keen on them. But that’s my only option while he’s recovering. So I’ve been heavily rewarding him for being by my side and firming up my emergency cues like U-turns so if we do come across something triggering, I can turn him around or keep him distracted without him lunging and potentially hurting himself.

2. Make a comfortable resting space

A comfortable space will make all the difference for your dog. Think about what they currently like to sleep on and try to recreate that within the confined space you’ve created. Adding familiar bedding, toys, and even items of clothing with your smell on them can help comfort and reassure your dog.

I used a small room to confine my dog and blocked access to any furniture he could jump on. I used his orthopaedic bed that he loves as his main resting spot and covered it with soft blankets. I then used a small duvet on the rest of the floor so he could still lie comfortably outside of the bed.

3. Create a crate rest schedule

From medication to enrichment to keep your dog mentally stimulated, there can be a lot to think about on a daily basis. To help ensure you don’t miss anything, consider creating a schedule. I made a spreadsheet each week detailing what medication my dog needed and when along with his exercise regime and what to give or do with him each day to prevent boredom. (If you need some crate rest enrichment tips, take a look at my series on Instagram.) I also set alarms so that I didn’t forget things, particularly the medication!

The schedule can look overwhelming at first. But week on week, your dog can usually have more exercise and there’s less medication so overall less to do as time goes on!

4. Don’t expect old habits to die

Just because your dog may be more subdued doesn’t mean their behaviour will completely change. After a couple of days of being home, my dog Winston was looking for ways to look out the window. Although the sofa was blocked off, he was trying to edge his way on and when post was delivered, this behaviour intensified and could easily catch me off guard.

How did I solve this? Well, I put a note on my front door asking people to leave deliveries in the porch and avoid knocking which has helped a lot. You can even leave your phone number and ask them to call if you need to sign for something or let a visitor in. I’m also using the time to teach Winston an alternative response to his usual barking and running up and down which is something I’ve been lazy with in the past!

5. Share the load if you can

It can be physically and emotionally draining caring for your dog, particularly if you have others to care for and a job on top. If you can, share responsibilities with family members or friends. If you can’t share the load, make sure you look after yourself as best you can. Take a walk, catch up on rest while your dog is napping, read a book, or indulge in a new TV series.

Disclaimer: always follow your vet’s advice. These are simply tips to help make the post-operative recovery process easier.