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Questions To Ask Your Veterinarian Before Your Pet Goes Under Anesthesia

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Anesthesia is not something to take lightly. At University Animal Clinic, we make sure your pet receives the best care in a safe, comfortable environment before, during and after receiving anesthesia. We believe knowledge is the best way to combat fear — that’s why we’ve compiled a list of questions you can ask your vet before your pet goes under anesthesia.

Ask Your Vet About Procedures And Services Surrounding Anesthesia

Before you trust your vet with your pet, you can ease some anxiety and doubts by asking informed questions. These include:

  1. Do you require blood work? Taking blood work before administering anesthesia is crucial because it allows the vet to check your pet’s organ functions. Blood work gives clues as to how an animal’s liver is going to be able to metabolize anesthesia.
  2. Does your hospital have a nurse anesthetist monitoring the pet? It’s essential to have a nurse in the room whose only task is to monitor your pet while it undergoes anesthesia, and even pre- and post-anesthesia. This way, the nurse cleaning the teeth can focus on their job and not have to divide their attention from the procedure.
  3. Will my pet receive an IV catheter during anesthesia? An IV catheter is essential during anesthesia procedures because it provides the vet with access should they need to use emergency drugs. IV catheters also provide your pet with IV fluid therapy — this keeps them hydrated and ensures there are no bouts of low blood pressure, which could be detrimental to your pet’s heart in the long term.
  4. Will my pet be monitored during the procedure? You can ask your vet what type of monitoring equipment they plan to use and what they are checking for. At University Animal Clinic, we use ECGs and check for appropriate oxygen levels and blood pressure. Keeping tabs on these details allows us to make sure your pet’s heart is beating regularly and that their blood pressure and oxygen levels stay stable and appropriate through anesthesia.
  5. Can you describe the procedure to me? Your veterinarian should be able to explain everything that will occur during the procedure. For instance, they should be able to tell you whether or not they plan to use dental x-rays to see the parts of the teeth not visible to the human eye such as the tooth root and determine if they need to be extracted.
  6. Do you have a scaler or any type of equipment to get under the gum line? Asking your vet if they have the equipment (like a scaler) to get under the gum line is imperative. A significant difference between an anesthesia-free dental treatment and a true dental cleaning under anesthesia is the latter ensures the vet can access hard-to-reach areas under the gum line to remove bacteria. The prolonged buildup of bacteria can cause problems to the heart and other organs later on.

Anesthesia For Pets In Bradenton

Sometimes anesthesia is necessary to clean gum infections or remove your pet’s broken teeth. University Animal Clinic is an AAHA-accredited hospital that administers anesthesia to pets needing oral surgery and other services in Lakewood Ranch, Sarasota and Bradenton. Contact us to schedule an appointment today or call our office at (941) 253-5218.

What Our Clients Have To Say

I wasn’t holding my breath that a vet would work hard to help diagnose my leopard gecko. I was wrong. The doctor worked hard to diagnose why our pet lizard stopped eating & ran a battery of tests.

Paulina Testerman

Vets and staff are knowledgeable and efficient. Clean and friendly Vet office. My dog now goes in to see her Vet with out balking.

Sara Little

Dr. Fink was just super with the Bruiser on his last visit. The entire staff was attentive, caring and professional. We would highly recommend University Animal Clinic to all who love their pets and want the best care for them.

ARF

All employees are amazing with animals. I am glad I found a Vet’s office that makes me feel that my 5 months old puppy is in the best hands

Heide Myrick

Even with full covid-19 protection our Basset was well cared for by the staff, I received detailed home care instructions and got a ‘checking on you’ call the next day. Our basset is on the way to revovery. Perfect outcome. Great caring friendly staff.

Stan Yonkauski

Met Dr. Sam and Dr. Fink today and was very impressed. We have been a client of University Animal Clinic since it opened with Dr. Rill. My wife and I feel very comfortable with these ladies and plan to keep our relationship with them. The staff and Dr’s are very helpful and friendly.

Pet Parent

The very best of care, the entire staff always gives their all and truly cares about both patient and parents! You won’t find a better clinic in Sarasota.

Ron Marano

My dogs, Max and Leo, always have a very positive experience at UAC. The staff is friendly and professional. The office is efficient and clean. I appreciate the ability to check on the dogs’ vaccinations, etc., on the pet portal. Great vet practice.

Ronni Silverman

The entire staff was friendly and professional. Dr. Sam was extremely knowledgeable, kind, and eased my anxiety. Even though I was worried they comforted me, answered all of my questions, and took great care of my fur baby.

Zach Gennette

It is very difficult to find an avian vet who is kind while not sugar coating what can be bad news. I had no idea conures get cataracts as they get older, helped me understand my bird’s actions. The Dr. is wonderful!

Jessica Sakas
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