Anesthesia Safety Management
When your PON is scheduled for a tooth cleaning or
any other surgical procedure which requires anesthesia,
it is of utmost importance that food is withheld at
least twelve hours prior to surgery. Not only will this
prevent your PON from vomiting and inhaling stomach
contents during surgery, but it will also reduce nausea
as your PON regains consciousness. This advice is vital
for the well being of your PON and needs the
co-operation of all family members.
Your family veterinarian should schedule biochemical
tests to determine the health of major body organs.
These tests should include B.U.N. and creatinine tests
to gauge kidney health and ALT,AP, bilirubin and
cholesterol to detect liver problems. Glucose analysis
and total blood proteins detect diabetes and an EKG may
detect heart issues. If problems are detected,
modifications in anesthesia will protect the life of
your PON. And yes, this does tend to become expensive,
but essential for your PON.
Another important consideration is staffing at local
veterinary hospitals. Many do not have around the clock
staff to observe your PON after surgery and rather than
have your PON spend the night alone, it is better to
pick him/her up , shortly before the hospital closes and
if there are problems, contact your local emergency,
veterinarian.
There have been discussions about the type of
anesthesia to use with PONS and experienced owners have
advised newbies to discuss this in depth with their
family veterinarian. The issue of pain meds will come up
during your discussion and all PON owners are strongly
advised to inquire about adverse effects and not rush
into accepting meds which have a known history of deadly
effects on canines. Do your own research and google the
name of meds ,as well as the term, "adverse effects".
Your PON's life may depend on your research abilities.
