Frequently Asked Questions About Pet Anesthesia and Surgery

Does my pet need to be fasted prior to surgery?

Yes. No food after 8:00pm the evening before the surgery and no water after midnight.

What do I need to do in the morning?

If you own a dog, please walk him/her well. Try to encourage them to defecate and urinate before admission. Please bring your pet to the hospital between 8:00 and 9:00 am. First come is usually first served unless an emergency arrives.

Why do you need my pet so early in the morning if procedures start at noon?

While we make every effort to minimize your pet’s stay, several procedures must be accomplished before noon, including pre-anesthetic blood work, ECG, IV catheter placement and pre-anesthetic medication.

What kind of precaution do you take before administering anesthesia?

All patients need clearance for anesthesia. We routinely perform pre-anesthetic blood work and electrocardiograms. Older patients may need chest x-rays, echocardiogram or more comprehensive blood work.

Why do you need an intravenous catheter?

Your pet’s front leg will be shaved in order to place an IV catheter. This is the only way we can administer propoflo for induction of anesthesia. The catheter will also serve as a means to give fluids to your pet while under anesthesia - this is much safer and helps a lot in recovery. Finally, it serves as a direct route to the blood, should an emergency arise.

How is anesthesia safely monitored in my pet?

All patients have a dedicated nurse and are monitored by devices that record blood pressure, heart rate, breathing rate, and blood oxygen concentration. Isoflurane gas anesthesia is very safe because the depth of anesthesia can be changed quickly in response to alteration in the above parameters.

What about pain?

We routinely monitor anesthesia not only with a dedicated nurse, but also with devices such as blood pressure and pulse oximeter to verify your pet’s comfort. Pre and post surgical anti-pain medication is administered based on the procedure performed. Anti-pain medication will be dispensed to be given at home for the following 4-5 days after the procedure.

When should I all for a progress report?

After 4:00 pm

When can I come pick up my pet?

It really depends on recovery time, but discharge is usually scheduled between 6:00 and 7:00 pm

Can I feed my pet tonight?

No. Your pet may lick ice cubes. Give a very light breakfast the following morning; if there is no vomiting, you may give more.

What can I expect in the next few days?

Your pet should be eating in 24 hours post anesthesia. Bowel movements and urination may change frequency and consistency. Your pet will gradually resume normal activity in 2-3 days.

When should I come for suture removal?

Between 10-14 days after surgery, but not later.