As a loving pet owner, your pet's health is likely always at the forefront of your mind. It can be scary when your furry family member needs a health procedure done that requires anesthesia. At All Creatures Hospital in Del Mar, our doctors and trained staff are here to help you and your pet through their veterinary procedure(s) in a low-stress, calm environment.
Why is anesthesia necessary for my pet?
There are times when a pet requires general anesthesia in order to perform certain tests or treatments. Among these are:
Surgery
X-rays
Dental Procedures (cleanings; X-Rays; tooth extractions)
Ultrasound examinations with biopsies.
Certain needed medical treatments that would be too uncomfortable with an awake patient.
Diagnostic tests
There are many other tests and procedures that require a patient to be still and not reactive to stimuli
What happens next?
Our doctors will choose the best anesthetic protocol for your pet. Every patient is given an individualized anesthetic plan and will have an anesthetic team assigned to their case. Prior to, during and after the anesthetic procedure, each patient is closely monitored by the doctor and our trained technical staff.
During anesthesia every patient’s vital signs are monitored on a continuous basis:
Heart rate
Respiratory rate
Body temperature
Continuous electrocardiogram (ECG)
Continuous blood oxygen monitoring
Level of anesthesia
Blood pressure
After anesthesia, a veterinary technician closely monitors the patient during anesthetic recovery – keeping them warm; wrapped in soft blankets and in a quiet area of the hospital. Most patients are awake enough to stand within 1 hour and fully recovered from anesthesia within 2 hours. Depending on the procedure, patients will need to stay in the hospital under observation for a few more hours after anesthesia.
What to expect when you take your pet home
Afterwards, the doctor will talk to you about your pet’s anesthesia; procedure; and Home Care Instructions. This will include medications that will be sent home and other recommendations for aftercare.
After anesthesia, most patients will be quieter once they get home. That first night it is important to keep them calm and in a warm (but not too warm); quiet; and familiar part of your home. Cats need food and a litter box close by. Dogs should only have short walks.
The Home Care Instructions will contain feeding instructions; the level of activity allowed; medications; and special instructions related to the procedure just performed.
Contact Our Hospital
Call All Creatures Hospital at (858) 481 – 7992 if you have any questions or concerns. Patient examinations and recheck exams can be scheduled by calling the hospital or through our website (www.allcreatureshospital.com ).