When dogs are spayed or neutered, the majority of them will require anesthesia. Today, our Pleasant Hill vets explain the risk factors for dogs under anesthesia and how dogs are monitored after being given anesthesia.
When Anesthesia is Used
Veterinary treatments such as dentistry, spay and neutering procedures, and surgery must be performed while your pet is sedated. Anesthesia is regulated unconsciousness, where your pet's degree of consciousness is controlled so that they do not feel pain or move.
Most healthy and senior pets have no problems with anesthesia. The dangers of anesthesia are generally tied to the treatment, not the anesthetic itself.
How Long Does Anesthesia Last in Dogs?
Dogs will tend to feel sleepy or tired for 12 to 24 hours after anesthesia. Your dog should be virtually normal by the time he is discharged. If your dog is acting weird after anesthesia, or you are unable to rouse them quickly, contact the hospital right away for specific guidance.
Always make sure to follow any post-surgery advice your vet gives you for a speedy recovery.
Risk Factors Of Anesthesia
When vets employ any anesthetic drug, there is always the possibility of an unpleasant reaction. After your dog has been sedated, he'll lose his typical reflex capacity to swallow. If there is food in the stomach, the dog may vomit while under anesthesia or shortly afterward.
Very small, old, or unhealthy dogs have a higher anesthetic risk. Dogs can also be more vulnerable to anesthesia because of changes in or immaturity of some of their body's organs or systems.
Almost half of all anesthetic-related canine deaths occur within the first few hours after surgery. There are always hazards when administering any anesthetic medication to a patient, regardless of how long the patient remains sedated. A patient's reaction to the sedative can range from moderate to severe. Patients can experience a wide range of symptoms including edema at the injection site. Fasting before anesthesia, as recommended by your veterinarian, is critical to lowering the risk factors of anesthesia.
How Can I Reduce The Risk of Anesthesia-Related Complications In My Dog?
Here are some steps you can take to reduce the risk of anesthesia-related complications:
- Make sure your veterinarian knows of all medications and supplements (including over-the-counter products) your pet takes.
- Follow your veterinarian’s instructions before anesthesia, especially concerning withholding food, water, and medications.
- Let your veterinarian know if your pet has ever reacted to sedation or anesthesia.
The following diagnostic tests before undergoing anesthesia normally include:
- A complete blood count (CBC) to rule out blood-related conditions
- Chemistry tests to evaluate kidney, liver, and pancreatic function, as well as sugar levels
- Electrolyte tests to ensure your dog isn’t dehydrated or suffering from an electrolyte imbalance
In addition to blood tests, your vet might also recommend the following:
- A catheter is part of the anesthetic preparation. The catheter can be used to provide anesthetics and intravenous fluids to keep your pet hydrated. Further, if needed, it would serve as a pathway to directly administer life-saving medications, should a crisis arise.
- Intravenous fluids to help maintain hydration and blood pressure. IV fluids also help your dog recover by aiding the liver and kidneys in clearing the body of anesthetic agents more quickly.
All of these steps are designed to make sure your pet undergoes a successful treatment without any complications arising from the anesthesia.
Why Do I Need to Sign An Anesthetic Consent Form?
It is critical that you completely comprehend what will happen while your dog is under anesthesia and that you are aware of the hazards involved with an anesthetic.
The form will include consent to perform surgery or another specified diagnostic testing, as well as an estimate of the treatments' projected costs. Before undertaking anesthetic operations, the veterinarian is required by law in many places to seek written agreement from the owner.
How Vets Monitor Dogs Under Anesthesia
Several measures are in place to make sure your dog doesn't suffer any complications from anesthesia. These include:
- An electrocardiogram (ECG) monitors your dog's heart rate and rhythm. It can detect arrhythmias, which are irregular heartbeats. If an arrhythmia is discovered, your veterinarian can adjust your anesthetic accordingly.
- If your dog is undergoing a lengthy surgical treatment, his core body temperature may be monitored. Body temperature fluctuations might lead to serious problems.
- A blood pressure monitor measures the blood pressure of your dog. It provides detailed information on your pet's cardiovascular state when used in conjunction with other monitoring equipment.
- Pulse oximetry may be used to monitor the amount of oxygen in your dog's blood and pulse rate.
- Carbon dioxide (CO2) is frequently monitored alongside oxygen because it helps assess if your pet is getting enough oxygen under anesthesia.
- A technician or assistant is present during the anesthetic event to monitor your dog’s vital signs and to help adjust anesthetic levels, under the direction of the veterinarian.
- A heart rate monitor counts your pet’s heartbeats per minute. Anesthesia and other factors can affect heart rate. By monitoring your dog’s heart rate, your veterinarian can make anesthetic adjustments quickly.
Surgical Care at Diablo View Veterinary Hospital
At Diablo View Veterinary Hospital, our team of professionals is committed to delivering veterinary care for your beloved pets.
Our skilled doctors are equipped to diagnose and treat your furry companions. With a passion for animal health, our veterinarians offer a variety of treatments with compassionate care.