Crating Injured Dogs

Limiting Movement and Preventing Further Injury:

 

Injured dogs often require restricted movement while their injuries heal. The crate environment enforces rest and prevents them from reinjuring themselves by running or jumping – particularly as they start to feel better. You don’t want your dog taking off when the doorbell rings and needing a follow up surgery.

 

Reducing Stress and Anxiety:

 

Injury or surgery increases stress which can hinder recovery. The crate provides a cosy sanctuary for your injured dog, away from children and other pets, where they can recuperate in peace.

 

Facilitating Supervision and Care:

 

Crating allows you to monitor your dog during their recovery, observe any changes and intervene if needed. The crate space means that wound sites are easy to keep clean which prevents infection. You can quickly interrupt any excessive licking or scratching. Crating facilitates dressing changes and administering of medication.

 

Choosing a crate:

The crate needs to be large enough for your dog to stand up, turn around and lie down comfortably. Extra space may allow for too much movement during the recovery process. Visit our crate size page to help with choosing an appropriate size for your dog.

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When to set up the crate

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If you know in advance when your dog is to have surgery, set up the crate a few days beforehand to allow your dog to become familiar with the crate. Make the crate enticing by sprinkling treats inside. If the surgery is an emergency, set up the crate before your dog returns from the vet so they can directly into the crate when they arrive home.

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What should be placed in the crate

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Place your dog’s bed into the crate or if that isn’t an option, line the bottom with a mattress, blankets or folded up towels. Do not place food or water bowls in the crate, as they can make a mess. You will be taking your dog out for food and water or bringing the bowls to the crate and removing afterwards. Partially covering the crate with a duvet cover or sheet, can help to create a more den like atmosphere.

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Where should the crate be situated

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You can place the crate next to your bed or in the area where the family usually congregates (like the lounge or kitchen). You may choose to get more than one crate to allow you to have a night time and daytime location or you can move the crate from place to place as needed. The area should be free from drafts or direct sunlight as your dog will not be able to move away if they should become too hot or too cold.

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How to keep your dog occupied

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Make the crating experience positive by ensuring your dog has constant access to chews or toys. Stock up on yummy chews to keep your dog busy, like dried bones, hooves or sinews. You can stuff a Kong with treats and canned food or you can purchase pre-stuffed bones or hooves. Some dogs may enjoy having a favourite toy with them in the crate.

How it works

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Your dog is going to be remaining in the crate for the full duration of their recovery. This will be their new home. When they need to go to the bathroom, you will either carry them outside or if, they can walk, lead them to the garden to go to the toilet. Note that they will not be encouraged to mess in the crate. Attach a lead to your dog’s collar every time you take them out of the crate, so that you limit their movement and prevent any possibility of reinjury.