Prior to every dental cleaning we require a pre-anesthetic blood panel to rule out underlying conditions. During anesthesia, we use human anesthesia monitors that read blood oxygenation, blood pressure, ECG, and end-tidal CO2. The veterinary technicians at Gallatin Vet are trained extensively in anesthesia; many have completed courses taught by a board certified veterinary anesthesiologist and one of our technicians worked for many years in the anesthesia department at the University of Wisconsin Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital. There is a dedicated anesthesia technician for each dental case and animals are kept on intravenous fluids and warming blankets throughout the procedure. Each patient has a customized anesthesia protocol based on age, medical conditions, and temperament. Digital dental radiographs allow for quick and precise diagnosis of underlying dental disease so the entire procedure can be as efficient as possible. We provide systemic pain control as well as local nerve blocks prior to extractions.
Burl’s blood work came back normal and after discussing comfort, quality of life, and our anesthesia protocols, a dental was scheduled for February. As expected, Burl made it through anesthesia without any complications. In total Burl lost 15 teeth! At his two week recheck, Burl’s mom reported that Burl is loving life and seems like a totally new dog! He has more energy and has started playing with his toddler buddy and exploring the neighborhood. Burl’s mom is so pleased with the outcome that she’s planning a family road trip because Burl finally has good breath!