A survey of perianesthetic management of brachycephalic dogs identifies wide variation across United States veterinary practices despite well-documented risks.

OBJECTIVE

To provide an overview of contemporary perianesthetic management practices for brachycephalic dogs and to identify areas in which research may improve patient safety and outcomes.

METHODS

We developed an online survey that was made available from December 8, 2025, through January 4, 2026, that included questions regarding respondent and patient demographics, perianesthetic management practices, and perianesthetic complications in brachycephalic dogs. The survey was distributed to licensed veterinarians and veterinary technicians across the US. Response frequencies were summarized for each survey item, and generalized structural equation models were used to evaluate associations between responses and prespecified predictor variables. Response variables were grouped into domains, including previsit management, premedication practices, induction and intraoperative management, recovery and discharge practices, and medications administered during recovery.

RESULTS

The survey was distributed to 32,626 veterinary professionals, yielding 1,386 responses (4.3%). Most respondents (937 of 1,386 [67.6%]) practiced within general small-animal practice, with elective neuter procedures being the most common reason for anesthesia in these dogs. A high degree of variability was observed in perianesthetic monitoring and pharmacologic protocols utilized. Responses varied based on years of practice experience and whether the respondent was a general practitioner or specialist.

CONCLUSIONS

Perianesthetic management of brachycephalic dogs differs substantially between general practitioners and specialists and across experience levels, with the widest gaps in previsit medications, monitoring, and recovery practices.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Substantial variability in previsit medications, antiemetic and prokinetic use, monitoring, preoxygenation, and recovery practices, influenced by practice type and clinical experience, underscores the need for standardized perianesthetic protocols for brachycephalic dogs.