Anesthesia Protocol
                          Updated 30 August 07

This is something all Frenchie Owners need to know.
French Bulldogs cannot tolerate intravenous anesthesia and should have pure gas to put them under during surgical procedures-i.e. spaying/neutering, teeth cleaning etc.  Isoflurane is the best gas for this use. Smaller tubing such as used for Chihuahua’s is the correct size.  Intravenous anesthesia can easily cause death in this breed. To be safe Frenchies should not be put under anesthesia until 6 months of age unless an emergency requires. Young Frenchies are more prone to have adverse reactions to anesthesia.You should wait till you pup is at least 5-6 months of age before under going any routine surgical  procedures involving anesthesia.

ADVISE STRONGLY AGAINST USING:
Pentobarbital aka Pentathol (injectable anesthesia)
Metofane (inhalant gas)
Halothane (gas anesthesia)
Ace Promazine
WARNING: Many Frenchies and other brachycephalic breeds have experienced adverse side effects, even death from the use of ACE Promazine.  Please don't take a chance! In Dr Hunts own words:
"I do not believe in acepromazine for any brachycephalic breed... I stand steadfast on that point. In fact, I don't like its use in most dogs... There are so many other, better options nowadays and ace is an old time drug, I see no reason to use it."

USE WITH CAUTION:
Dormitor (reversible anesthesia/sedative)

SATISFACTORY CHOICES FOR FRENCHIES:
Ketamine (usually used in combo with valium as an injectable anesthesia/sedative)
Valium (see above)
Torbutrol (analgesia)

OPTIMUM CHOICES:
Propofol (injectable)
with either of the following 2 gas anesthetics as a maintenance:
Isoflurane(aka IsoFlo) OR Sevoflurane (aka SevoFlo)

ANESTHESTIC EXTRAS:
(These would be in addition to the Optimum anesthetic protocol listed above, and are highly recommended for c-sections or longer procedures)
Atropine given at induction
IV catheter & fluids
Famotidine (Pepcid) injection (helps cut down on nausea and post-op vomiting, hence aspiration)
Dexmethasone injection (may be given if palate is very long or irritated from ET tube; this can reduce post-op swelling and make recovery easier)

(This is in addition to the Optimum anesthetic protocol listed above) Atropine given at induction Place the mom-to-be on IV fluids Oxytocin injections (usually one after all the pups are out and she begins sewing up the uterus and the second about 20-30 minutes later) Antibiotic injection post-op
 

INTUBATION vs. MASKING/CONING DOWN:
EVERY brachycephalic dog that goes under anesthesia should have an endotracheal tube (ET) placed in his or her trachea! Always! That airway must be protected at all times. The tube should be left in until they are VERY awake and trying to chew it out. Use the intravenous propofol to induce anesthesia (which puts them under) and allows sufficient time to place the ET tube. From then on, anesthesia is maintained with sevo or iso.

Be Careful when masking a frenchie down. Masking can be harder on brachycephalic dogs because they struggle to hold their breath, which can irritate the airways and deplete their oxygen levels (which you do not want before surgery). It is my opinion that using injectable and then tubing them gives them the optimum oxygen supply that is ideal for frenchies.
 
 

For those who question this protocol or disagree, In Dr Hunts own words:
"My purpose when I initially put this together in about 5 minutes for Frenchie rescue was not for it to become the be-all-end-all, all inclusive protocol for anesthesia... It was intended to help frenchies in rescue and their vets who may not be familiar with brachycephalics and anesthesia... It has now become circulated more widely than I could have ever imagined.... ......  I do not even attempt to address pain control in this protocol... this is up to your vet and individuals choices... Of course, I believe it essential! ........ I welcome questions always, and am not offended by being questioned, people are always invited to call or email ... That is how we continue to learn... I never profess to be an expert, just trying to be helpful to our beloved frenchies as there are many vets who lack experience with them ... This list was intended to be a GUIDE, in its purest and simplest form. Something for people to discuss with their vets and be able to make informed decisions, so we can prevent the loss of our dear beloved frenchies to anesthetic.
By:
Lori Hunt, DVM  -   (440) 871-6211>
http://www.centerwestanimalhospital.com/

Thank You Dr Hunt for a great article and your dedication and care for the French Bulldog Breed!