Using Anesthesia in Veterinary Medicine
Anesthesia is the combination of unconsciousness, muscle relaxation, and pain relief (analgesia) that allows your pet to undergo surgical or diagnostic procedures. When performed correctly and with appropriate monitoring, anesthesia of healthy patients carries a low risk.
Patients with co-existing diseases, such as heart or lung disease, are at increased risk of complications, and these pets may undergo additional testing prior to anesthesia, require additional monitoring during anesthesia, or may have their anesthetic procedure postponed until they are more stable. Whether your pet is healthy or sick, they will be monitored continuously throughout the anesthetic period and during recovery to minimize the risk of complications.
The anesthesia service at VMCLI is staffed by a board-certified anesthesiologist, who will work with your veterinarian to understand your pet’s medical history and condition. Our anesthesia team may request additional tests and imaging based on your pet’s medical history and physical examination findings.
Experienced Veterinary Anesthesiologist
Dr. Jennifer Hess, our veterinary anesthesiologist, specializes in anesthesia for cardiac patients and effective pain management. She finds great satisfaction in navigating the challenges of complex anesthesia cases. She also takes great pride in sharing her knowledge as the Associate Editor of the Veterinary Anesthesia and Analgesia journal.
Frequently Asked Questions About Anesthesia
Here, our team take the time to answer some frequently asked questions about veterinary anesthesia.
-
What is veterinary anesthesia?
Veterinary anesthesia involves the use of medications to help pets remain relaxed, unconscious, or pain-free during certain procedures. It allows veterinarians to perform diagnostics or treatments safely while minimizing discomfort and stress for the patient.
-
Why might my pet need anesthesia?
Anesthesia may be recommended for procedures that could be painful, require your pet to stay completely still, or would otherwise cause stress or anxiety, such as surgery, dental treatments, or some diagnostic tests.
-
Is anesthesia safe for pets?
Modern veterinary anesthesia is commonly used and carefully managed. Before anesthesia, pets typically receive a physical exam and, in many cases, pre-anesthetic testing to help assess their individual needs and risks.
-
How is my pet monitored during anesthesia?
During anesthesia, our anesthesia staff, which includes Dr. Jennifer Hess, will monitor your pet's vital signs such as heart rate, breathing, oxygen levels, and temperature. This helps the team make adjustments as needed throughout the procedure.
-
How long does it take for pets to recover from anesthesia?
Recovery times can vary depending on the procedure, the type of anesthesia used, and the individual pet. Some pets may feel drowsy for several hours after returning home.
-
Are there side effects after anesthesia?
Temporary effects such as grogginess, mild nausea, or reduced appetite may occur. Your veterinary team will provide post-procedure care instructions and let you know what to watch for at home.
-
Will my pet feel pain during the procedure?
Anesthesia is used alongside pain-management techniques to help reduce discomfort during and after procedures. Your veterinarian can explain the pain-control options included in your pet’s care plan.
-
Can senior pets or pets with health conditions receive anesthesia?
Many older pets or those with underlying conditions can still undergo anesthesia, with additional precautions or adjustments. Pre-anesthetic testing and tailored protocols help guide safe decision-making.
Available Anesthesia Services
- Customized pain management plans
- Motor sparing local nerve blocks for stifle surgery
- Interventional pain management
- Supervision and training of all technicians and staff
- Training for specialty VTS
- Utilizing advanced cardiovascular monitoring equipment
- Ultrasound-guided nerve blocks, nerve catheters, epidural, and epidural catheters
- Referring to veterinarian consultations and advice