At some point, your dog might need a surgical procedure for their well-being. During surgical procedures our veterinary team will carefully administer and oversee anesthesia for your dog. Familiarizing yourself with how anesthesia is used in dog surgery and understanding the basics of their recovery process can help alleviate any concerns while your pet is in our care.

Administering anesthesia to a dog becomes essential when a procedure requires immobilization or might cause discomfort or distress beyond the dog's tolerance level. It is important to us that you have both comfort with and confidence in our hospital, team, and recommendations. Whenever a sedative is suggested for your dog, our veterinary staff is here to address all your queries and offer any help to make the procedure as stress free as possible for both you and your furry companion.

Ensuring your dog's specific needs are met involves adhering to precise veterinary anesthesia procedures to prepare them for surgery. Our top priority is guaranteeing your dog's peak health before any surgical intervention. For that reason, your veterinarian will always recommend diagnostic lab work ahead of the procedure to gain a comprehensive understanding of your dog's overall physical wellbeing.

Why Would Your Dog Need Anesthesia

Dog anesthesia is utilized for procedures requiring immobilization or surgeries that may otherwise cause pain and discomfort. Using anesthesia allows us to keep your dog still and pain-free during the procedure. While under anesthesia, your dog will be in an unconscious state, completely unaware, experiencing no discomfort

Risks Associated With Giving Dogs Anesthesia

Every surgery carries inherent risks, but at Summer Creek Animal Clinic, our proficient veterinary team keeps these risks minimal. We ensure meticulous and attentive monitoring throughout the entire duration that canine patients are under anesthesia, prioritizing their safety and well-being above all else

What To Expect The Day Your Dog Receives Veterinary Anesthesia

Before your dog undergoes anesthesia or any surgical procedure, your veterinarian will provide you with detailed instructions. They will also have a thorough discussion with you regarding the potential risks associated with veterinary anesthesia. As you arrive with your dog for the surgery, here are some key things to remember:

  • Fasting is recommended the night before any dog sedatives or anesthesia are administered
  • Follow any specific directions given to you by your veterinarian
  • Depending on the type of procedure and your dog’s condition, our veterinarian may recommend additional prescription pain medications while your dog recovers
  • Ask any questions you may have and our veterinary staff will provide answers and help to ease your mind before or after the dog surgery is performed

Monitoring Anesthetized Dogs

The veterinary surgical team will provide meticulous monitoring of your dog during and after the procedure, extending throughout the entire duration of time your dog is under the effects of sedation. Following your dog's surgery, our veterinary staff will:

  • Monitor your dog’s heart rate, EKG (ECG), body temperature, blood pressure, and oxygen levels
  • Keep an IV catheter in place to provide fluid support should there be any fluctuations in blood pressure
  • Make sure your dog is breathing well and resting comfortably

*The risks of dog anesthesia are very low with proper monitoring.

What To Expect As Dogs Come Out Of Anesthesia


At Summer Creek Animal Clinic, our veterinary team remains vigilant in monitoring your dog's vital signs, heart rate, and blood pressure as they emerge from surgery and awaken from any administered sedatives until they're prepared to return home. Your dog might feel sedated for a while after leaving. Our staff will discuss your dog's pain management strategy with you, which may involve several days of prescribed pain relief. Before your dog is discharged, you'll receive specific instructions. If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to Summer Creek Animal Clinic immediately. Some dogs may not regain their appetite until the following day. To ensure your dog's complete recovery, it's essential to adhere to all instructions provided by your veterinary team.