Dogs recovering from orthopaedic surgery require carefully managed rehabilitation that balances pain control, restricted movement, and graduated exercise to achieve optimal welfare outcomes.
Orthopaedic surgery recovery represents an extended period of welfare compromise for dogs, during which pain, enforced restriction, and disorientation create significant distress. Welfare-centred recovery programmes prioritise excellent multimodal pain control, early introduction of gentle physiotherapy, and graduated activity that supports tissue healing without reinjury. The social and environmental impoverishment of strict crate rest needs to be balanced with mental stimulation through puzzle feeding and calm human interaction. Hydrotherapy provides pain-free exercise that maintains muscle mass during the most restricted periods. Owners play the central role: following rehabilitation protocols precisely determines both quality of life during recovery and long-term surgical outcomes.