If your pet is to be anesthetized, be assured that advances in anesthesia and surgery have been made for routine procedures relatively safe with a low rate of complications. Nonetheless, occasionally problems can arise due to pre-existing conditions that may not be noticed during the pre-anesthetic examinations. To avoid these problems, we recommend all pets be screened prior to anesthesia by the following laboratory tests.
1. Pre-anesthetic Blood Screening: organ function tests, packed red blood cell & total plasma protein measurements.
2. IV catheter and Fluids: aids in adequate blood pressure and gives immediate access to the vein if an emergency arises.
Bloodwork is required if over 1 year of age OR if bloodwork has not been done within the last 3 months. Heartworm tests are required if over 1 year of age and has not been done in the last year.