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General Anesthesia
We utilize the safest available anesthetics to provide an extra margin of safety, especially for our older or high-risk patients. Individual anesthetic protocols are devised based upon presurgical examination clinical findings and pre-anesthetic testing as indicated. We will never compromise your pet's safety while under anesthesia and we will never compromise our high standard of care in order to save a few dollars.
A general anesthetic results in a loss of consciousness in the animal and a loss of sensation throughout the body. Most general anesthetic procedures involve several steps beginning with the administration of a sedative. An intravenous injection of an anesthetic renders the pet unconscious while a breathing tube is placed into the pet's airway. A gas anesthetic (isoflurane) is delivered in combination with oxygen to the animal via the breathing tube to maintain the state of unconsciousness. Although general anesthetics are significantly safer than they have been in the past, there is still the remote chance of an anesthetic accident. There are many ways to reduce the risk associated with anesthesia including a thorough physical examination and blood work prior to anesthesia. Intravenous catheter placement and fluid therapy during the anesthetic also help to increase safety. Anesthetic monitoring equipment (such as heart rate, ECG, blood pressure, respiratory, pulse oximetry and body core temperature monitors) and protocols (frequent patient evaluation by trained veterinary staff) can also contribute to dramatically safer anesthesia. We also use active methods to keep our patients warm during surgery, which helps animals recover faster from anesthesia.
Cut rate, low-price veterinary clinics cannot utilize these state-of-the-art anesthetics and anesthesia/monitoring procedures. The low price means that some corners needs to be cut and anesthetic safety compromised. You are always welcome to tour our facility prior to a procedure to "see for yourself". We welcome this kind of scrutiny on the part of our discriminating clientele.
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Valley Veterinary Services
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