All procedures involving a general anaesthetic incur risk to the patient. While nearly all human surgical procedures are overseen by an anaesthetist there are few specialist anaesthetists in veterinary private practice. We use specialist anaesthesiology to maximise your pets chance of survival during an operation. Anaesthetists analyse and assess your pets anaesthetic risks before a procedure and modify the anaesthesitic technique accordingly. This can involve different drug combinations, fluid therapy, thermostatic support or respiratory ventilation. In many ophthalmologic surgeries the patient needs to be chemically immobilised. They are also vital in the event that a complication occurs. If your pet arrests on the operating table they will intervene (with your consent) to perform resuscitation.

Anaesthetists are also experts in the field of pain relief and pay particular attention to your pet's comfort while hospitalised. If required they can perform epidurals, nerve blocks and administer intravenous pain relief.

Our anaesthetist, Dr. Colin Dunlop, is internationally renowned and plays an important part in the SASH team. You will find him consulting in all areas of the hospital ensuring the safety of our patients.