Expert: Marie Peppers / The Boston Terrier Lady - 6/17/2009

Question
QUESTION: Morning. I am looking for someone to help me...our Boston Terrier pup, Pixie, went in for a minor eye operation on Friday morning. She was 3 months and 17 days old. The vet gave her general anesthetic and she didn't make it, she stopped breathing on the operating table although she was a very healthy pup. They did a full on medical examinations before she went in for the operation and she was 100%. I'm not a vet myself, but I think she was to young for general anesthetic! Can someone please give me some advice or anything...I just need to know.

ANSWER: Oh No!  I am so sorry for your loss!!!  I would not have done this eye surgery so young.  The Boston Terrier cannot tolerate anesthesia or heat. It is best to use a VET who has lots of experience with Bostons.

It is very hard for them to come OUT of the anesthesia, healthy or not..
Again, I am so sorry!

Marie

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thank you Marie, I really appreciate it. We also think that she was to young, but the thing is, the vet told us that they would have to operate on they eye as soon as possible seeing that her "third eyelid" came out, and we trusted his judgment. So what do they normally use on a Boston Terrier is they have to operate? Thank you for all your help.

Answer
No, that was not a surgery that had to be done so soon.  The vet could have given you instructions for cleaning the area and eye drops.
Even with a spay, they like to wait until the dogs are a little more weight ( more pounds) ....
I just don't think this had to be done at this time.
Also, many times they can give them a Local Shot and puppy valium to make them go to Sleep.  Even with little Chi dogs, they try not to do full anesthesia...

Tell your vet your concerns....
The thing is, you allowed them to do this without getting a second opinion.  In that case, you don't have much to fall back on.
You took the vet's advice and did what he/she said.
You signed the papers and were aware of the risks.... Right?
You did do the pre-op blood work, and that does protect the vet.
You signed all the papers understanding the slight risk of anesthesia.
( with Bostons it is a major risk)

I am So sorry - I know you did what you felt was needed.
In the futue for yourself or your pets - Always get a second opinion before any operation.


Blessings

Marie Peppers LPN