We know how concerned our clients are about anesthesia for their pet.  We are too.  Time is spent evaluating choice of drugs and drug protocols and every step of anesthesia to give our patients the best that is available.

We use a balanced anesthesia protocols.  The protocol is adjusted to each pets specific needs.  The protocol allows for pet evaluation using examination and preanesthesia lab testing. The protocol includes prevention and control of pain before, during and after surgical procedures.

Before anesthesia is induced, pets receive medication to help relax and control pain.  Once relaxed, an intravenous catheter is placed and intravenous fluids are started to help maintain blood pressure, tissue perfusion and oxygen delivery to all organs. (A drop in blood pressure puts pets at risk both during the anesthesia and afterwards.)

Anesthesia is induced usually using complementary drugs, again to relax the pet, reduce/control pain and help maintain blood pressure and heart rate.  An endotracheal tube is placed to support respiration.  The endotracheal tube provides a means to deliver oxygen and gas anesthesia.  It helps prevent aspiration of fluids into the lungs.  Respiration is supported to fully inflate the lungs to help prevent lung collapse.

Anesthesia is maintained with isoflurane, a gas anesthetic.  The heart rate and rythem as well as respiration and internal body temperature are monitored.  The pet is provided heat to help maintain normal body temperature. Heat is provided under the patient, through warming of the IV fluids as well as a Bair Hugger warm air blanket.  We also put heavy socks on the patients.  Our typical patient retains a normal body temperature through out the procedure and recovery.

While in surgery, we use the ADS 1000 anesthesia machine.  The A.D.S. 1000 is a microprocessor controlled anesthesia delivery system / positive pressure ventilator.  It represents an advanced way of delivering anesthesia which enhances safety while in surgery. This machine has changed the way anesthesia and ventilation therapy is administered to veterinary patients. With the knowledge that the patient is always breathing, the veterinarian can completely focus on the procedure at hand without distraction. The A.D.S 1000 will correctly inflate the lungs to the proper pressure with each breath.

Please read the information in the Consumer Guide to Elective Surgery and Procedures.