Anesthesia

Before receiving anesthesia, the veterinarian will perform a thorough physical examination of your pet, review its medical history, and discuss potential risks.

Your veterinarian may also perform blood tests to check for signs of developing certain medical problems that would be a risk factor for anesthesia.

If you have any questions about your pet's health or his/her risk of anesthesia, ask for an explanation so you can make an informed decision.

Before anesthesia, as a rule, the pet receives a pre-anesthetic sedative so that the process goes through with as little stress as possible. On this occasion, an intravenous catheter is usually placed to allow the administration of infusion fluids and medications. The anesthetic can be administered by inhalation, gas inhalation (using a gas anesthesia machine) or intravenously - by infusion, or a combination of the two methods.

While under anesthesia, your pet will receive supervision and care comparable to what you would receive in a hospital. It may include an IV and/or medication to support your pet's circulation and blood pressure; intubation (endotracheal tube) to deliver anesthetic gas and supply the lungs with oxygen; pulse oximetry to measure blood oxygenation; blood pressure monitoring; temperature monitoring and warming blankets to prevent hypothermia (low body temperature) ; as well as electrocardiography (ECG) to monitor heart function.