Asked vet if it was possible for a dog to be given sedation for an X ray rather than a GA,  the answer was that  sedation can't be reversed while a GA can and that sedation leaves a dog groggy for longer. Am I being thicker than usual, but surely sedation is given before a GA anyway?

Sedation is actually more quickly reversed than GA - it takes longer to take effect but the animal will be walking out within 10 minutes of the antidote being given rather than the half-hour or so to wake after a GA.

Jeangenie.  Thank you. If he has to have an X ray tomorrow will ask again, was told yesterday that effects of sedation would leave him groggy for up to six hours. Don't understand why they would insist on a GA when sedation would be less stressful.

When they BAER test adult dogs they use sedation because it's quicker and more easily reversed than a GA. I've had dogs x-rayed under sedation before and it's so much quicker - fewer staff needed, no ventilation tube ... and as I say, the animal up and walking so much sooner.

However sedation isn't necessarily less stressful - a sedated animal is pretty much conscious, just not able to react.

> sedation isn't necessarily less stressful- a sedated animal is pretty much conscious, just not able to react.

Hadn't looked at like that, just thought it would be better as I could be with him for most of the time and perhaps come home quicker, depending on the outcome.

I have all mine hip and elbow scored under sedation. They don't need starving beforehand and they walk out of the Vets after about 10 mins of receiving the reversal so therefore do not need to stay at the vets waiting for the GA to wear off. I much prefer sedation to GA.

> However sedation isn't necessarily less stressful - a sedated animal is pretty much conscious, just not able to react.

That's where the owner comes in I think - deciding what's going to be the best option for the individual dog.

Most of mine would be fine with sedation but back in October Soli had an x-ray of her heart so could only be sedated - it was horrendous for her, being such a stressy dog anyway, she really struggled with being unable to react and refused to give in to it.  Even 40 minutes after the sedation was given and we were waiting outside the x-ray room, she was up and moving trying to fight it.  Not something I'll have done to her again if it's avoidable.

But as I say the rest of mine would be fine.

> However sedation isn't necessarily less stressful- a sedated animal is pretty much conscious, just not able to react.
> That's where the owner comes in I think - deciding what's going to be the best option for the individual dog.

I agree, having had him sedated on my lap previously for an op and then assist in carrying him through, I know he would be less stressed than having him taken away for sedation & GA. All dogs are different but do beleive that most owners know what is the better option - if allowed.