Understanding Anesthesia for Dogs

We know that the idea of your dog undergoing anesthesia can bring worry —especially if it’s their first time. While rare complications can occur depending on age, breed, or health, anesthesia is generally safe and routine in veterinary medicine.

At Whittington Veterinary Clinic, we’re committed to giving you trusted, veterinarian-approved information. To ease your mind and help you feel more prepared, we’ve answered common questions about dog anesthesia —so you can feel confident and informed.

What Are the Different Types of Anesthesia?

Veterinarians use different types of anesthesia depending on your dog’s needs and stage of procedure. These include:

  • Pre-anesthetic medication – Given before surgery to relax your dog and manage pain. It also helps with a smooth recovery after the procedure.
  • Induction anesthesia – Administered by injection to help your dog fall asleep quickly and allow for safe intubation.
  • General anesthesia – A gas anesthetic delivered through a breathing tube to keep your dog fully asleep and pain-free during surgery.

When Would My Dog Need Anesthesia?

Anesthesia is typically used for surgeries and procedures that would cause pain or require your dog to stay completely still. This includes:

  • Surgical procedures
  • Wound repairs that require stitches
  • Dental cleanings
  • Advanced imaging when a dog can’t remain still on their own

Are Some Dog Breeds More Sensitive to Anesthesia?

Yes, certain breeds can be more sensitive to anesthesia. At Whittington Veterinary Clinic, we take breed-specific needs into account and tailor every anesthetic plan to keep your dog safe and comfortable.

Sighthounds (like greyhounds and whippets) may have slower recoveries and are more prone to complications like hyperthermia with some anesthetic drugs.

Brachycephalic breeds (like English bulldogs, Pugs, and Frenchies) have shorter airways, which can increase the risk of breathing issues during and after anesthesia.

At Whittington Veterinary Clinic, we take breed-specific needs into account and tailor every anesthetic plan to keep your dog safe and comfortable.

What Should I Know Before My Dog Has Anesthesia?

Before any anesthetic procedure, we will perform a full physical exam and review your dog’s medical history. This helps assess any risks and ensures your pet is healthy enough for anesthesia.

Pre-anesthetic testing typically includes:

  • Blood chemistry panel
  • Complete blood count (CBC)
  • Electrolyte levels

What If My Dog’s Pre-Anesthetic Bloodwork Is Abnormal?

If your dog’s bloodwork shows any abnormalities, we may delay or adjust the procedure for your pet’s safety. Depending on the results, your veterinarian might recommend:

  • Additional testing to better understand the issue
  • Adjusting the anesthesia plan to lower risk
  • Postponing the procedure until the concern is addressed
  • Treating the underlying issue before moving forward with anesthesia

Our goal is always to prioritize your dog’s safety. If anything unexpected shows up, we’ll explain the findings clearly and walk you through the next best steps.

For more details, the AVMA provides a helpful overview of what to expect before, during, and after an anesthetic procedure.

If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to call us at (337) 893-8522—we’re here to help.