Pet Anesthesia: What to Expect

The idea of your pet undergoing anesthesia for surgery at Apple Valley Veterinarians in Plantsville could make you nervous, but knowing what to expect will help you avoid undue apprehension.  Pet anesthesia is necessary to keep your pet safe and comfortable during certain veterinary procedures. Our medical and nursing staff working behind Dr. Freiman and Dr. Rothstein are well prepared to do all that is needed to make sure that anesthesia works as intended

Facts about Pet Anesthesia at Apple Valley Vets in Southington

Local or general anesthesia may be needed for procedures such as dentistries, invasive surgeries, and even some diagnostic imaging procedures. It is used to ensure optimal achievement of diagnostic and treatment goals by:

  • Ensuring that your pet is comfortable and free from pain.
  • Helping to relax your pet’s muscles, to prevent moving or fighting during the procedure.
  • Rendering your pet unconscious, in a controlled and safe manner when Dr. Rothstein or Dr. Freiman feels that the benefits in diagnosis, treatment, and outcome outweigh the small inherent risk.

General anesthesia is given through intramuscular,  intravenous or inhalant routes which can also be used to deliver fluids, medications, and oxygen as needed. Your pet’s vital signs, including respiration, heart rate and rhythm, blood pressure, and temperature are carefully monitored by our veterinarians and staff in our Plantsville facility during the entire procedure.

Before and After Pet Anesthesia

Before anesthesia is given:

  • You will likely be instructed not to allow your pet to eat for 8 to 12 hours prior to the procedure, This helps prevent vomiting and possible inhalation of material during induction of anesthesia.
  • Ask our staff if you can give your pet water before surgery and how daily medications should be handled on the day of surgery.
  • Dr. Freiman or Dr. Rothstein will examine your pet to determine if surgery and anesthesia are needed.
  • He or she may be given a stress-relieving sedative before anesthesia, and pain medication will be started.

After discharge:

  • Your pet will not be released from the hospital until we can be reasonably sure that he or she will do well at home.
  • Your pet should not be nauseous or vomiting.
  • She should not appear overly groggy or shaky.
  •  Call us if you have any concerns while your pet recovers.

If you have further questions about pet anesthesia, contact Apple Valley Veterinarians in Plantsville. We are happy to answer your questions and provide complete veterinary care for patients in Southington, Hartford County, and surrounding areas in central Connecticut. Contact us at 860-628-9635 today.

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