At Barnes Veterinary Service in Lakewood, CO, scheduling a necessary pet dental care procedure is a crucial step in safeguarding your companion’s overall health and comfort. We know that any procedure requiring anesthesia can cause some worry for pet owners, but preparing properly at home significantly reduces risks and makes the day run smoothly. Following a simple preparation routine ensures your pet is in the best possible condition for a successful and safe dental treatment with our veterinarian.
Complete All Pre-Anesthetic Testing
Before the day of the procedure, our veterinarian requires comprehensive pre-anesthetic blood work, which is vital for assessing your pet's internal organ function, particularly the liver and kidneys. These tests ensure that your pet can safely metabolize and clear the anesthetic agents, catching any underlying issues that could increase the risk during the procedure. This essential diagnostic step allows us to customize the anesthesia plan specifically for your pet's unique physiological needs.
Follow The Strict Fasting Instructions
It is critically important to withhold food from your pet after the designated time the evening before the dental procedure, usually around 10:00 PM. Anesthesia can sometimes cause nausea, and having food in the stomach increases the serious risk of aspiration pneumonia, where stomach contents are accidentally inhaled. Water, however, should be offered as normal until the morning of the procedure when it, too, is typically withheld for the last few hours.
Prepare A Comfortable Recovery Area
The day before the appointment, set up a quiet, warm, and easily accessible space in your home where your pet can rest undisturbed immediately following the dental procedure. This area should be close to the ground, eliminating the need for jumping onto furniture or stairs while your pet is still recovering from the effects of the anesthesia. Having this space prepared ahead of time minimizes stress for both you and your companion when you bring them home from our clinic.
Bring Necessary Medications And Information
On the morning of the dental procedure, ensure you bring all current medications and any documentation requested by our clinic, such as previous medical records if they are not already on file. You should also be prepared to review your pet’s current health status and sign the necessary consent forms for the anesthetic and procedure itself. Having everything organized will help expedite the check-in process and address any final questions you may have.
Schedule Your Pet Dental Care Consultation
Prioritizing regular pet dental care is one of the most proactive things you can do for your animal's health, preventing chronic pain and systemic illness. If you have noticed bad breath or difficulty eating, it may be time for an evaluation. Call Barnes Veterinary Service today to schedule a consultation with a reliable veterinarian near you in Lakewood, CO.