keeping dog away when in pain

[LeroysMommy]

I just had surgery on my stomach. My puppy wants to jump up and to cuddle on my belly like he has in th past. I can not lift him. I can defintly not let him lay on me for a few weeks. He has been crying a lot when I turn him away. How do I let him know he can not be on me but I still love him and want to pet him and such?

[Carina]

I'm assuming he's a small breed? Many of us have real big dogs & can't cuddle them up in our laps at all (though I'm sure some of the dogs would like it!) By being near, being petted & praised while next to us, being played with, talked to, and taught things...they feel quite loved.

If your condition allows, can you play fetch or something with him? Praise him lots when he's next to you instead of on top of you. Maybe think of some cute tricks to teach him (how old is he?)He won't feel any less loved. If you switch from thinking of him as "sad and feeling unloved" to "being a bit bratty" it may make it easier on you.

Do you have anyone else who can spend some time with him & tire him out a bit? That might help too. I hope your recovery goes fine...I understand stomach surgery can be real painful because there's so many layers of muscle. Take care of yourself & get well soon!