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Our 5.5y pug had died after his anesthesia started taking effect. He was there for Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome, and seemed healthy otherwise. He had removed few bad teeth 4 months ago with all the blood test being perfectly normal. On clinic, they did "full workout" testing and x-rayed his chest. All fine. The theory is, he was living with heavy oxygen debt and anesthesia slowing him down was simply too much. But looking at the invoice and quick call back there, the clinic didn't do any blood tests. They claim it's not a standard procedure and while I understand my knowledge is limited, it's killing me that could perhaps show something and prevent him undergoing the anesthesia.

How important a blood work is? Could it warn about low oxygenation?

EDIT: Clinic has explained a blood testing was deemed not needed according to their extensive practice and what they learned about him from other tests. Their original "he seemed healthy" was indeed backed up strongly when described in detail. They did experience a few similar cases but there's still no clue what are the indicators to look for, except all were brachycephalic dog breeds. Blood test wouldn't help with oxygen level. (see the accepted answer)

xius
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Where i live bloodwork is not done before surgery unless there is a medical condition that needs to be confirmed or excluded that might affect the outcome of the surgery.

Link: http://www.pethealthnetwork.com/dog-health/dog-checkups-preventive-care/why-does-my-dog-need-blood-work-anesthesia

Bloodwork will not show low oxygen and if it does it is just a picture of oxygen saturation at the exact moment in time when the sample was taken.

When surgery is done the vet will use a clip-on electronic oxygen meter to monitor the animal,This is the same type of equipment that is used on people in hospitals and it shows oxygen-saturation and heart rate.

The oxygen meter is used so the vet can monitor your pets vitalsigns continously during the surgery and failing to do so is the main reason for deaths under anesthesia.

Link: https://todaysveterinarypractice.com/anesthetic-monitoring-your-questions-answered/

A blood sample can show if your pet have an allergy to any of the medication used during surgery,But the bloodwork needs to be done well before any surgery is sheduled so the vet can get the results back from the lab.

trond hansen
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