GENERAL ANAESTHESIA IN DOGS

Advances in veterinary anaesthesia have shown that a combination of Propofol given by injection and then followed by Isoflourane mixed with oxygen produce a smooth and safer anaesthetic. These combinations are both standard products used by human anaesthetists. They have been proven to reduce damage to organs such as the liver and give a quick recovery time with a minimal hangover effect. Although these advanced products are more expensive to use than the more traditional ones still used by many practices, we believe that the great improvement in safety and rate of recovery far outweigh the small price increase.

Are Some Breeds More Susceptible To The Risks Of Anaesthesia Than Others?

The simple answer is no. However, some breeds such as Greyhounds, which are naturally very thin, may take a long time to recover from the more commonly used anaesthetic agents. They therefore require special handling. It is very important to weigh every patient as the weight of very furry dogs such as Chows or Huskies can be greatly overestimated if judged by eye.

Is my dog too old for an Anaesthetic?

No. Age of itself is not a contraindication for anaesthesia. Many 14 year olds are physiologically younger than some 8 year olds. As long as all older animals are carefully assessed for any underlying or hidden problems in the vital organs such as the heart, liver or kidneys, there is no good reason why they should not be anaesthetised.

What Is Premedication?

On or shortly after admission, your dog will normally be given a premedication injection. This is a combination of pain killer and sedative, which makes the induction of anaesthesia smoother, reduces the dose of anaesthetic agent needed, makes recovery from anaesthesia smoother, and also greatly reduces any fear or worry Lola may feel from being in a strange environment. Collies in general don't take too well to ACP medication and it is often recommended that this is avoided and other pre anaesthesia medication is used.

What Can You Expect After An Anaesthetic?

Don't be in a rush to get your dog home. Until fully recovered he or she is much safer in a clinical environment where the skill and equipment to deal with any problems are to hand. We do not like to release animals that are still groggy or confused, but this time has now been far reduced by the introduction of the new anaesthetic agents.

What About Pain Relief?

Before anaesthesia we routinely administer a pain killer with your dogs premedication. This is the most effective way to prevent post operative pain. Where indicated, such as after a particularly painful procedure, we always continue pain relief post operatively. This may take the form of injections given here or tablets to be taken at home. NEVER give human pain killers to pets without first consulting with us. These can be very toxic and dangerous.

This information is not meant to be a substitute for veterinary care. Always follow the advice provided by your veterinarian.