A UK study of dogs anesthetized or sedated in general practices in 2010–2013 found about 0.14% died within two weeks where anesthesia could not be ruled out as a factor. Dogs over 9 years old had 12.8 times the risk of dogs aged 0.5–1.5 years.
RCVS KnowledgeMy old dog needs anesthesia for surgery or tests. Is it worth the risk at their age?
This needs your vet’s judgement. This page only shares other owners’ experiences and public information. It is not medical advice.
What people do around the world
Weigh anesthetic risk against the benefit of the procedure for each dog
Royal Veterinary College
Royal Veterinary College (VetCompass)Agree with the owner on the benefit to quality or length of life before surgery
American Animal Hospital Association
American Animal Hospital AssociationDo a physical exam and blood tests before anesthesia
American Animal Hospital Association
American Animal Hospital AssociationTell the vet about current medicines; monitor closely during anesthesia
AKC Canine Health Foundation
AKC Canine Health FoundationElderly dogs can be cared for by an anaesthesia specialist team, with blood pressure and ECG monitored throughout
University of Sydney Veterinary Teaching Hospital
The University of SydneyCareful assessment and monitoring are linked to lower anesthetic mortality
International study | 55,022 dogs, 405 veterinary centres
Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU (Veterinary Record)「My 11-year-old goes under general anesthesia for surgery tomorrow. I'm worried and unsure how to care for my dog afterward.」
Oct 2026
「I'm deciding whether to put my dog under full anesthesia for tests, and I hope I can stay beside it.」
Oct 2026
Updated 29 Oct 2026.