Procedures like surgeries require pets to be put under general anesthesia so that they are unconscious and do not feel any pain. Although many pet owners worry about the risk of general anesthetic, we can assure you that modern anesthesia is generally quite safe. To further lower any risk, we perform a comprehensive physical exam and run blood work on each patient to catch any underlying health concerns and prevent complications down the road.
We begin most general anesthetic procedures by administering a sedative to help the pet relax and decrease any anxiety and pain. We then administer an intravenous drug to provide complete anesthesia and place a breathing tube into the patient’s trachea (windpipe). To maintain the state of unconsciousness, we deliver a gas anesthetic in combination with oxygen through the breathing tube. Around this time, a long-acting pain medication will also be administered to facilitate the easiest recovery possible. Throughout your pet’s procedure, their assigned team will monitor their vital signs and anesthetic levels to ensure their safety at all times.
Please contact us if you have any questions or concerns about your pet receiving general anesthesia or about the procedure for which your pet is scheduled.
