Giant dog crying after x-ray with anaesthetic

Help, I'm really worried about my big guy. My giant, lovable Newfoundland just had an x-ray, and they had to use anaesthetic because, well, he's massive and couldn't stay still enough for them to get a clear image. The thing is, now that we're back home, he’s been crying non-stop, and it’s breaking my heart. I don’t know if it’s a reaction to the anaesthetic wearing off or if something else is going on. He’s never been like this before after any vet visits, and I’m starting to panic a bit. Could the anaesthetic be causing him discomfort? Or could he be in pain from the reason we needed the x-ray in the first place? I’m just at a loss and not sure if I should take him back to the vet immediately or just wait it out. Any advice would be so appreciated!

Answer

Thanks for reaching out with your concern. It's understandably worrying to hear your giant dog crying after an anesthetic. Anesthesia can sometimes cause disorientation and discomfort as your dog wakes up, and this can lead to vocalizations like whining or crying. It's similar to how we might feel groggy or restless after waking up from anesthesia.



There are several possible causes for this behavior. It could be a response to the unfamiliar sensations or noises that your dog experienced during the procedure. Additionally, some lingering effects of the anesthesia, like nausea or a headache, might be contributing to their discomfort.



To help your dog feel more comfortable at home, create a quiet, warm space where they can rest undisturbed. Make sure they have access to fresh water but hold off on food until at least a couple of hours after they're fully awake to avoid upsetting their stomach.



Monitor for signs of a more serious issue, like prolonged crying, difficulty breathing, or unusual swelling at the site of the procedure. If your dog seems unable to settle or if anything seems out of the ordinary, it's essential to seek veterinary advice.



If you have further concerns or need reassurance, it’s a great idea to book a video consult with one of our vets on Dial A Vet so we can assess your dog more closely and provide tailored advice.

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