The effect of general anesthesia is a loss of consciousness and loss of sensation throughout the body in the animal.  The anesthetic is administered intravenously and takes affect within minutes.  Your pet is constantly monitored by our technicians and doctor while they are under the effects of general anesthesia.  A local anesthetic results in a loss of feeling or sensation to a local area.  This type of anesthetic is used during smaller surgical or diagnostic procedures such as a biopsy.  Sometimes pet owners will request some kind of medication help calm their pets during travel or in stressful situations such as during thunderstorms.  In these cases, we will prescribe a medication that will tranquilize or sedate the animal.  The most common result is that your pet will stay awake but act relaxed or your pet will sleep but can be easily awaken when stimulated.  General anesthesia, local anesthesia, and sedation carry certain risks and therefore your pet will be fully examined prior to administering injectables or dispensing medications.