How Safe Is Pet Anesthesia?

Feeling concerned about having your pet placed under anesthesia is a normal part of having a furry companion in your family. While some pet owners might have heard upsetting stories, the truth is that most pets do perfectly fine under anesthesia. Our team at New Hope Animal Hospital understands your concerns, and it is our hope that this guide can help you feel more comfortable about having your pet undergo essential procedures at our Durham clinic.

When Does Pet Care Require Anesthesia?

As you might have already noticed, your pet can experience some new and potentially challenging behaviors when they are hurt or scared. Most of the time, our veterinarian only recommends putting a pet under anesthesia when they are undergoing a major surgical procedure such as spaying or neutering. Emergency pet care services, such as removing a foreign object from the digestive tract, also require anesthesia to keep your pet calm and free from feeling any pain.

What Risks Are Involved with Pet Anesthesia?

Pets face similar health risks with anesthesia as humans. Some pets may experience changes in their breathing or heart rate during surgery, which may or may not be related to the anesthesia. Surgery is stressful on any pet’s body, but using general anesthesia can also help to reduce the risk of issues such as an excessive heart rate that could occur with stress. When our veterinarian recommends using anesthesia, they only do so if it is the best way to take care of your pet during a major health care procedure.

How Do Vets Keep Pets Safe During Surgery?

While there are a few risks, your pet’s vet will take precautions before, during, and after the surgery to make sure that they stay safe. Typically, a blood panel is run before the procedure to make sure that your pet is in good health, and the vet will always begin with a full exam to make sure that they aren’t experiencing any new health issues.

During the procedure, our team uses special equipment to monitor your pet’s breathing and heart rate. If necessary, we also have medicine and other strategies available to take immediate action when we note that a problem is developing. After the procedure is over, we’ll continue to monitor your pet until the anesthesia effects wear off, and they are ready to go home.

Talk to Our Experienced Vet About Your Pet’s Health Needs

The best way to alleviate your concerns about any pet health care procedure is to talk to a vet that you can trust. Each member of our team at New Hope Animal Hospital in Durham is committed to taking the time to explain each part of a procedure to you along with why we recommend using anesthesia to keep your pet safe and comfortable. Call our team today at (919) 490-2000 or reach us through our website by using our online contact form.