I said, “Yes. Absolutely,” after the ER veterinarian told me my heart dog, Onyx, needed an emergency splenectomy. I had no idea what to expect with a major surgery removing his spleen. I only knew that I had to be there for him in every way possible. I was not prepared for his post-surgery care, but I knew that any dog recovering from illness or 
If your dog is recovering from an illness or just coming out of any kind of surgery, I know how overwhelming their care can feel. There is fear, exhaustion, and constant questioning of yourself and your decisions. Onyx’s splenectomy was his first major surgery. He went on to have two other surgeries in his lifetime, and I’m forever grateful that I documented everything from his first-it gave me the confidence I needed to care for him through the others. There are so many practical, natural, and effective ways to support your dog’s healing, and knowing where to start can make all the difference.
Creating an Optimal Healing Environment
Recovery at home begins with creating an environment that minimizes stress and overstimulation while ensuring safety measures are in place to prevent injuries. When your dog is recovering from an illness or a surgery, they will not be able to move in the way they normally do. Even simple things like a stair or two to get outside can become problematic. You can’t remove your stairs, but you can always have your dog on a leash and be by them to guide them.
Onyx spent two days in the ER so he could be monitored for any complications before coming home. The day I brought him home I made sure he had a space that was quiet and had all his favorite things. I had my husband disable our doorbell so it could not ring and disturb Onyx, and I put a sign on our door to prevent people from knocking. Family and friends who came over during his healing time knew to just enter our home slowly and quietly. These were steps I took to minimize noise and stimulation.
Where Can You Make Environmental Adjustments Similar to Mine?
Consider what your normal day to day is like. Where can you make adjustments similar to mine? Here are some common stimulus that you may need to consider:
- Does your dog react to seeing people outside? If so, close the curtains during his recovery.
- Does your dog need to be left alone during her recovery? If so, ensure you have created a small space and have properly protected any incisions or wounds.
- Does your dog get really excited by squeaky toys? If so, remove them from the area during recovery.
- Do you have slick floors? They may need extra rugs during your dog’s recovery.
- Or are there other obstacles in your home? Consider what may need to be adjusted to assist your dog’s mobility during recovery.
By preparing your home for your dog’s recovery, you are advocating for their healing.
Nutritional Support for the Recovery Journey
Just a week after Onyx’s splenectomy, he developed a severe liver infection. I suddenly found myself navigating the challenges of both post-surgery recovery and managing a new illness. It was overwhelming, but it also made me realize how crucial nutrition was to his recovery. I shifted his meals to a bland diet of cooked turkey and rice—he was allergic to chicken, which is often used in these situations—to make sure he was still getting the calories he needed. I also tried different ways to keep him hydrated and drinking regularly.
Many dogs recovering from illness or surgery may not drink enough water, so creativity can help:
- Try electrolyte water, like SmartWater, or consult your veterinarian about specific hydration products available for dogs.
- Does your dog have a favorite vegetable? Onyx’s favorite was broccoli. I boiled broccoli and then let the water cool and he lapped it up. Broccoli water became a thing in our home anytime we needed him to drink – and just as a treat, too.
- If your dog likes ice cubes, incorporate them into your nutrition routine.
- There are also several dog broths on the market in varying flavors. Do not give a dog a human broth; there is way too much sodium in them.
Onyx’s experience helped me understand how much nutrition shapes immune strength. And when a dog’s immune system is well-supported, it becomes one of the most important allies in the healing process.
Remember, during recovery you are not aiming for perfection. You are focusing on progress and support. Every nibble, every sip, and every gentle touch is about healing from the inside out.
Should I Use Supplements During My Dog’s Recovery?
Supplements can play an important role in helping your dog recover from illness or surgery. They certainly played a role in Onyx’s healing journey. Supplements are not a replacement for medical care, but they provided a natural boost to help his body grow stronger as he healed.
There are many supplement options available, and depending on your dog’s support needs, you’ll want to be sure to do your research. Always ask your dog’s veterinarian or certified dietician before adding any supplements to your dog’s diet.
Here are supplements to consider, depending on your dog’s condition:
- Probiotics and prebiotics to promote gut health. Important note: If your dog is also on antibiotics, be sure to give probiotics and prebiotics at least an hour before or after administering antibiotics. I did not know this at first with Onyx and I fed them together, which my internal medicine veterinarian quickly informed me prevented the pre/probiotics from doing their job in his gut.
- Omega-3s to help with anti-inflammatory support. Thanks to having 5X Extra Strength DHA and EPA, Bernie’s OMG! Omegas are an excellent option – and they’re easy to give as a treat.
- Milk thistle has been proven to support liver function, which is beneficial for illness or injuries that affect the liver, like Onyx’s, but also for supporting any stress medications may put on your dog’s liver.
- Turkey Tail Mushroom supplements have been shown to support immune system health. I incorporated turkey tail into Onyx’s diet and I saw his energy levels improve.
- Daily multivitamins help round out nutrient intake supporting overall health.
- Joint health supplements will help support any illness or injury that affects mobility.
- Other gut supportive supplements, like Bernie’s Perfect Poop, which positively affects immune function and nutrient absorption.
In Onyx’s case, not only did I research the supplements that would specifically support his immune system and liver function needs, but I incorporated general supportive supplements to provide his body with the most support I could.
I’m confident that supplements played a role in Onyx’s vitality through supporting his immune system, energy levels, and assisting his digestive system.
There are many natural options that gently support healing. As always, check with your veterinarian before introducing anything new to your dog’s diet. I worked closely with Onyx’s internal medicine veterinarian on each of the supplements he took.
Physical Rehabilitation and Ongoing Care
For Onyx, our journey didn’t end with the splenectomy surgery. After months of managing the liver infection, we found a mass in his abdomen that required another full open cavity surgery to remove. At the same time he had a colonoscopy to determine a consistent presence of blood in his stool. Both of these operations were done on the same day, and while I was nervous about the outcome, I felt prepared to manage his post-surgery care because I documented everything from his splenectomy. He even went on to have a third surgery a few years later after he ruptured a disc in his neck running in our sliding glass door after it had been cleaned – so be mindful of super clean glass doors!
With each of Onyx’s surgeries, I leaned on a team of professionals. Each of the vet specialists he saw were a part of my support team – his internal medicine veterinarian, his anesthesiologist, his neurosurgeon, and his supportive care specialists.
Based on your dog’s situation, consider the following:
- Red Light Therapy. We utilized red light therapy following Onyx’s neck surgery. It involved short appointments at our regular vet’s office. There are at-home products available, which we recommend consulting with your veterinarian about which options are best for your dog. We found red light therapy so beneficial we invested in a LumaSoothe so that we could provide light therapy at home.
- Physical Therapy. Onyx did not see a physical therapy specialist, but I did have a friend who guided me through how to best work his physical self back into shape following each surgery. Onyx wanted to move more than his body wanted him to move, which is common in dogs. It’s up to us to monitor their physical progress and a physical therapist can be a great support.
- Acupuncture. While Onyx never received acupuncture care, it has been proven to help alleviate pain and relax the body. Talk to your veterinarian about whether it’s a good option for your dog.
You know your dog best. Trust your instincts. One of the positive benefits of all of Onyx’s medical issues was the way the healing process deepened our bond. I knew I was his best advocate and his comfort was always top of mind.
Don’t Forget About Your Own Care, Too
That said, do not overlook caring for yourself. I was tired. I was anxious. I tracked every bowel movement, temperature change, medication given, and more with the intensity of a full-time nurse. I felt overwhelmed and shed more tears than when I watched Marley & Me for the first time. It was hard.
But I also learned that asking for help, letting myself rest, and taking moments for myself were not selfish. They were necessary. I could not be Onyx’s advocate and his trusted partner if I was completely depleted.
So drink water. Eat meals. Step outside. Text someone who understands. Share the ups and downs with your family and friends. Let your dog’s recovery be a shared journey, not a solo burden.
Recovery is not linear. You’ll take two steps forward and four steps back. You’ll have moments where you doubt yourself. It’s okay to feel those feelings, as long as you remind yourself that you are not supposed to know exactly what to do. You are supposed to do what you believe in your heart is best for your dog.
You are capable of creating a healing environment, offering supportive nutrition, incorporating beneficial supplements, and leading the team who is there to help your dog heal – naturally, gently, and fully.
I lived through the healing process over and over, and none of this includes Onyx’s liver cancer diagnosis that came 6 months after his neck surgery. That’s a story for another day, but with everything I learned, I was able to support him past his prognosis of 6-9 months to living nearly another 2 years.
I would never wish the hard moments on anyone, but I’m forever grateful for the bond Onyx and I built through them, and for the 13 ½ years he spent at my side…or maybe it was me by his side.
Your dog looks to you the way Onyx looked to me: with unconditional love and trust. If you ever find yourself feeling lost about how to manage an illness or a healing process post-surgery, let these tips support you so that you can support your beloved dog.
