When it comes to surgical procedures, most dog owners are primarily concerned about the procedure itself. Some dogs, on the other hand, die from the anesthesia. In most cases it is due to an increased sensitivity of the four-legged friend or an overdose.
According to studies, around one in 2,000 dogs die from anesthesia every year. This corresponds to a death rate of 0.05%. In cats, the risk is said to be more than twice as high. [1]
A second study of almost 100,000 dogs even found a mortality rate of 0.17%. This corresponds to around one death every 600 anesthesias. [2]
So-called “anesthesiologists” provide anesthesia. This is the technical term for an anesthetist. He is primarily responsible for inducing anesthesia.
The dose is adjusted individually to the dog. And yet there is always a certain residual risk. As a dog owner, you should always be aware of this.
Especially when surgery is not absolutely necessary. Below you will learn about possible reasons, the risk factors and how you can prevent them.
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Risk factors
The risk of anesthesia is significantly influenced by 5 factors. These are:
All toy dog breeds have an increased risk of dying from anesthesia. The reason for this is simply the fact that an overdose can occur very easily.
Small dog breeds are also more likely to suffer from hypothermia. Similar risks also exist for very large breeds and overweight dogs.
It is not for nothing that many doctors recommend that overweight four-legged friends should first reach normal weight before an operation. This can reduce the risk.
According to statistics, complications occur especially in very young and very old dogs. However, age itself should not be responsible for this.
Rather, this fact is due to the fact that very old dogs are more likely to have existing and undiagnosed previous illnesses. Things are different with young dogs.
This is simply due to the fact that the immune systems of young four-legged friends are not yet fully developed. In addition, hormone levels fluctuate a little more during ripening. [3]
For reasons that are still unclear, greyhounds, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and all terrier breeds in particular react very sensitively to anesthesia.
But all brachycephalic breeds are also affected. This refers to dogs that have a very short muzzle and a flat face. So, for example, Bulldogs.
According to statistics, these breeds die most often from anesthesia. However, the general mortality rate is still low. Otherwise no vet would recommend it. [4]
- #4 Postoperative monitoring
The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) published a report that around half of deaths occur in the first few hours after surgery.
It is therefore all the more important that the dog is in good hands during this time. The risk is said to be increased for operations in the late afternoon. [5]
It is believed that this has to do with the staff. In the evening the shifts are usually thinner and the veterinary helpers tend to be a little more exhausted.
- #5 Lack of preparation
Before anesthesia, the veterinarian should take a blood sample and have the blood values checked in the laboratory. He should also ask you about your medical history.
Allergies and previous complications from operations are also relevant. It is particularly dangerous if the dog has undiagnosed previous illnesses. [6]
This can lead to complications under certain circumstances, and some dogs have died as a result of the anesthesia. This can be avoided with good preparation.
The risk of anesthesia is primarily influenced by age, size and race. But a lack of specialist preparation and inadequate postoperative monitoring can also lead to dogs dying during anesthesia.
Risk minimization
Dog owners themselves can also help to prevent such unpleasant things. The following tips have proven useful in practice:
Both being overweight and underweight can affect the effectiveness of the anesthetic. Here I advise you to stick to the weight recommendations.
Your dog is taking medication, has had problems with operations in the past and has been acting strangely for some time? Then let your doctor know.
Most anesthesia is necessary due to accidents. The number one problem here is swallowing foreign bodies. This is closely followed by car accidents and poisonings.
Many of these accidents can be prevented by careful handling. This is particularly true in the case of unintentional poisoning from common foods.
You will receive instructions from your veterinarian both before and after the anesthesia. Logically, you should follow all of these. [7]
Before anesthesia, it is important that dog owners are completely transparent and keep the dog at a normal weight. In addition, all instructions from the veterinarian should be followed. This can significantly reduce the risk of death during anesthesia.
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