Picking up my son from school yesterday I saw "THE SECRET LIFE OF PETS 2" advertised on the back of a bus. It showed this picture with the caption
" WHAT ARE YOU LOOKING AT? I'M NOT THE ONE STUCK IN TRAFFIC!
THE SECRET LIFE OF PETS 2 "
My Son and I both had to laugh out loud. This is a topic EVERYONE can relate to, we all have owned or known a pet that has had to suffer the indignity of wearing the dreaded "lampshade".While the "Cone of Shame" is always good for a laugh it is also one of the most important forms of treatment in Veterinary Medicine and taking it off is no laughing matter.Even so, pets initially don't like them. This makes people wonder if they are necessary. To help shed some light on this I wrote this page. Below are some of the most
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Why do they need one? To prevent the patient removing their own sutures (stitches), and to prevent licking of the surgical wound. Licking an unhealed wound slows down natural scar tissue formation which is essential for complete wound closure/healing. Licking also can infect a surgery wound.
Is it really necessary? Yes. Premature removal of sutures means that the wound will open. This must be prevented at all costs to ensure your pet stays healthy and you aren't up for bills that exceed the initial procedure.
Will they be able to eat/drink? Yes. They will be able to. Sometimes you may need to adjust the bowl size for two weeks until the collar comes off.
What if I watch them instead? Not a good idea. Let's be honest. Even if you do watch them very closely you won't be able to watch them 100 percent of the time. All it takes is a few seconds and the damage is done.
Can I take it off at night? NEVER, under any circumstances should you risk this. You will be sleeping. Think of it this way, when they are asleep they won't be worrying about their collar.
How long do they need to wear it? 14 days is the average time it takes to heal surgical wounds. Our clinic usually recommends 14 days under normal circumstances. But always ask YOUR Vet as this depends on the type of surgery and many other things.
Is there a better way? No. Elizabethan Collars are actually the BEST thing there is and work GREAT if you leave them on.
THE GOOD NEWS: Freedom is only two weeks away! If you have any questions about this please call Dr Ken, Mel or Shannon on 08 82816400 at Dr Kens Vet Clinic.
