Why is my dog trembling and panting after ACL surgery? Is it pain?

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Haru. I would recommend calling your veterinarian first if you are hesitant to take her in again. They may recommend increasing her pain management protocol. They may fill an additional medication for her to take to be more comfortable. If they want to see her, it is best to have her re-evaluated to ensure that a post-surgical complication has not arisen. I hope this information helps!

Abdominal surgery is a serious surgery, especially when infection is involved. So sleeping a lot would be normal and one way of healing. The shivering and panting is likely caused by pain, so make sure she takes her pain medicine on time. Best let her rest. She may not be hungry today, which is okay. Make sure she has fresh water available. She should be a lot better tomorrow.

Yes panting and licking can be signs of pain and nausea. I'd get him to an emergency vet tonight if possible, or to your regular vet tomorrow if tonight isn't an option. This could certainly be nothing more than needing a bit more time and medications, but with his recent history, I would take the more cautious route.

It's possible she has injured her back. many times there will not be any signs on a physical exam until the injury happens. Certainly an injury to the joints of the leg are also possible. I recommend to try to get her examined as soon as you can. A back injury can become chronic and serious in nature (just like humans). Be up front with the doctor about your cost concerns. Until you have her examined, she needs exercise restriction so NO running, jumping, going for walks, stairs or getting on the furniture. Crate her when you are not watching her and she should be on a leash anytime she goes outside. I hope this helps and please feel free to post any additional questions.

She is likely panting from pain. Panting is one of the main indicators of pain. I suggest you call your vet and ask about pain medication. If she is already on some, they may need to adjust the dose. They may not have given any due to the puppies nursing (some pain medications are passed in the milk) but some are pain medications that are safe to use. Please call them and ask about this. I don't think the bologna plastic has anything to do with it if I am understanding you correctly (the red peel on the outside of the meat). That should not be harmful. Hope this helps. Best wishes.

Panting can be a sign of pain or discomfort. I would recommend calling your vet and letting them know about the panting. If she isn't on a pain medication then she may need some, or need additional medication. Also be sure her gums look nice and pink. If they are pale in color then she needs to be seen right away. Other signs to watch for would include lethargy, decreased appetite, heat or swelling or discharge around her incision, or fever (rectal temperature over 102.5). If these occur, she needs to see the vet ASAP.

It sounds like she should be examined by a vet to determine the source of her pain. She could have neck or back pain, arthritis, abdominal pain, etc. and your vet should be able to localize the pain and decide the best way to treat. She may need an anti-inflammatory and your vet can prescribe. Do not use any human OTC pain relievers as they can be toxic to dogs.