Evacuation of an anaesthetised dog from theatre due to a hospital fire alarm

Abstract

AbstractAn 8‐year‐old entire male Beagle was anaesthetised for repair of a ruptured cranial cruciate ligament in the left stifle. The anaesthesia and surgery proceeded uneventfully until a fire alarm necessitated evacuation from the theatre, initially to the assembly area in the Hospital for Small Animals’ car park, and then to the Equine Hospital's orthopaedic theatre for completion of surgery. The dog was maintained on gaseous anaesthesia throughout without incident and recovered well. Although we were able to move the dog promptly and safely while maintaining anaesthesia, this might not be possible or appropriate in other situations; the decision‐making process and options available in this case are discussed as well as safety and planning considerations raised by this situation.