In this episode of "Ask the Vet" Dr. Ann Hohenhaus talks with Dr. Andrea Looney, Senior Veterinarian at AMC and board-certified specialist in Anesthesia and Analgesia, about how anesthesia is safely administered to pets. They discuss why the idea of anesthesia can make pet owners feel uneasy -- especially because general anesthesia involves a loss of consciousness -- and what goes on behind the scenes to keep animals safe and comfortable during procedures.

Topics include:

• Dr. Looney’s childhood around animals and her love of goats
• Why people may be anxious about their pets undergoing anesthesia
• How anesthetic plans are customized for each individual patient
• Which vital signs are closely monitored during anesthesia
• The subtle physical signs that veterinary staff look for when a patient is under anesthesia
• Why “flat-faced” breeds like Frenchies present unique challenges

Also on this month's show:

• Viral trending animal story featuring the giraffe who gave birth to a calf weighing 132 pounds
• Animal news, including a look at how humans resemble their pets, the small-clawed otters with a knack for escaping, and unlocking the secret mechanisms of a cat’s ability to purr.
• Pet Health Listener Q&A, with topics including hysterectomy options for small dogs, signs of kidney disease in cats, and what causes a cat to have different colored eyes.

Do you have a pet question for Dr. Hohenhaus? Email askthevet@amcny.org to have your question answered on Ask the Vet's Listener Q&A.

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