I dropped Callum off for his neuter this morning and I’m honestly feeling really overwhelmed and confused. I didn’t get much communication at intake, and now I’m sitting here worried I don’t understand what’s going to happen or what I’m supposed to do for recovery.

The surgeon wasn’t there when I arrived, so I never met the person actually doing the procedure. I asked the vet tech for the laser option because I’ve read it can reduce swelling and pain, but she said “the doctor has his own way of doing things” and that she’s heard mixed things about laser. I said I still wanted it, but I left feeling unsure if that preference was actually communicated.

I also feel totally lost about the recovery process. They said they’ll send him home with a hard cone, but mentioned there are other options online that might be easier. I haven’t bought anything because I don’t understand what’s appropriate or what he’ll actually need. I’m worried about how he’s going to sleep in a crate with a hard cone tonight, and I don’t know whether soft cones, inflatable collars, or recovery suits are acceptable alternatives.

I guess I just feel like I dropped him off without really knowing what’s going on, and now I’m anxious waiting until pickup. If anyone can share what helped them, what cones/collars/suits worked, what to expect the first night, or anything you wish you knew beforehand, I’d really appreciate it!

Thanks in advance I’m just trying to do right by my dog and feel a little more prepared!

Feeling overwhelmed after dropping my dog off for his neuter — need advice on what to expect