Upon arrival, a vet or nurse will admit you and go over a few questions to ensure your pet is ready for the procedure. They will also explain the various steps of the induction process, allowing you to decide which parts you would like to be present for. They will also check key parameters, such as weight, to calculate the appropriate drug dosages.

Once the medications have been calculated and prepared, your pet will receive an injection to help them feel sleepy and relaxed for the procedure. You will be able to comfort and hold your pet as they become sleepy.

After the premedication or sedation, we will leave you and your pet together for a few minutes to let the medication take effect. Once your pet is sleepy, we will place an intravenous catheter in one of their legs, and a small bandage will be placed over this.

Once the intravenous catheter is in place, we will have pain free access to administer the anaesthetic induction medication. Your pet will be under full anaesthesia within 30-45 seconds of injection.

After this, we will insert an “endotracheal tube” into your pet's airway to provide oxygen and anaesthetic gas that will keep your pet asleep throughout the surgery. We will need to open your pet’s mouth widely in order to insert the tube. Some pet owners choose not to stay for intubation but as your pet is fully asleep it is not uncomfortable at all for them.

Once the endotracheal tube is in place, your pet will be connected to an anaesthetic machine. They will then be taken to the prep area to prepare them for their procedure, which will be visible through the windows from the induction room. At this point, you may choose to go to our reception area, use our co-working space, relax in our quiet room, or leave the practice and return later. We will let you when your pet is coming out of surgery.

Once your pet has had their procedure the anaesthetic gas will be turned off and they will start to wake up. We will remove the endotracheal tube and get you reunited with your pet as soon as possible. Your pet may be quite groggy during this period, some pets can vocalise and make movements which is all normal as they start to wake up. Cuddling and comforting them can greatly improve their recovery. During this time, our team will be monitoring closely as well as give you instructions for how to take care of your pet following the procedure.