True or False: An animal should be in stable condition before radiographs, anesthesia, or surgery is considered.

• A. TRUE
• B. FALSE
• C. NOT APPLICABLE
• D. CANNOT TELL

Answer: (A)

Stability before procedures that require restraint, sedation, or anesthesia is essential because anesthesia can impair breathing and circulation, which is especially dangerous in a patient that is already compromised. If an animal is not in stable condition—showing signs like dehydration or shock, hypothermia, severe pain, or respiratory distress—the risk of complications during or after anesthesia or surgery is much higher and recovery can be poor. The safest approach is to first stabilize the animal: correct fluids and electrolytes, rewarm if needed, provide effective analgesia, and ensure better perfusion and oxygenation, while monitoring vital signs. Once physiologic status is stable, radiographs can be done more safely to guide diagnosis, and anesthesia or surgery can be planned with a much lower risk of perioperative problems. In wildlife rehab, stabilization is the gatekeeper for any invasive procedures; proceeding without it greatly increases risk.