Before administering any anesthetic, our experienced veterinarians conduct a thorough physical examination of your pet. This crucial step allows us to identify any pre-existing conditions, such as a fever or illness, that could potentially complicate anesthesia. By carefully evaluating your pet’s current health status, we can proactively address any potential risks and ensure they are in optimal condition for surgery.
Furthermore, we understand that every pet is unique, and their anesthetic needs may vary. At Lincoln Avenue Cat & Dog Hospital, we tailor the amount and type of anesthetic used based on your pet’s individual health condition, age, and breed. This personalized approach ensures that your pet receives the precise level of anesthesia required for their specific procedure, minimizing risks and promoting a smoother recovery.
The Vital Role of Pre-Anesthetic Blood Testing
Pre-anesthetic blood testing is an indispensable part of our commitment to anesthetic safety. We require blood testing for every pet undergoing surgery at Lincoln Avenue Cat & Dog Hospital. This testing is essential to evaluate your pet’s liver and kidney function, ensuring these vital organs are capable of processing the anesthetic effectively.
Even pets that appear healthy can have underlying organ system issues that are not apparent without blood work. Identifying these hidden problems before surgery is critical. Detecting any dysfunction allows us to take preemptive measures, such as administering IV fluids during surgery to support pets with minor organ issues. In cases where serious problems are identified, we can postpone surgery to address and correct these issues, significantly reducing anesthetic and surgical complications.
Convenient In-House Blood Testing for Your Pet
Lincoln Avenue Cat & Dog Hospital offers the convenience of in-house blood testing. This means we can perform and analyze your pet’s blood work right here in our clinic, often on the same day as their pre-surgical appointment. Our veterinarians prefer a comprehensive blood screen as it provides the most detailed information, allowing for a more informed and safer anesthetic plan for your pet. For senior pets or those with existing health concerns, additional tests like electrocardiograms (ECGs) or x-rays may be necessary to ensure their safety under anesthesia.
Important Fasting Guidelines Before Surgery
To further minimize risks associated with anesthesia, particularly the risk of vomiting during or after the procedure, it is crucial that your pet has an empty stomach on the day of surgery. Please withhold food for at least 8 to 10 hours before your pet’s scheduled surgery. Water can be left available for your pet until the morning of their procedure to keep them hydrated.
At Lincoln Avenue Cat & Dog Hospital, we are dedicated to making your pet’s surgical experience as safe and stress-free as possible. By combining advanced monitoring, thorough pre-operative assessments, and individualized anesthetic protocols, we strive to provide the highest standard of care for your beloved companion.
