Anasazi Animal Clinic
Monitoring During Anesthesia



Anasazi Animal Clinic features state-of-the-art anesthetic monitoring equipment with the most reliable and accurate measurements of important parameters affecting your pet's anesthesia during dental and surgical procedures. We know that anesthesia is a scary prospect and we take every step to ensure the safety and well being of your animal. Below are a list of measurements and readings that are recorded throughout an anesthetic procedure.

ECG (Electrocardiogram)
  • Continuous reading of the heart rate and rhythm, so that any abnormalities can be addressed in a timely manner
  • Especially critical with any history of heart disease
SPO2 (Oxygen saturation)
  • Continuous reading of oxygen availability to the tissues of the body
  • Important monitor of adequate breathing and lung function during anesthesia
CO2 (Carbon dioxide expelled)
  • Important monitor of adequate breathing and lung function during anesthesia
Blood pressure
  • Monitored to ensure that blood, with oxygen and nutrients, is being delivered to the organs throughout the body for normal function during anesthesia and afterward
Body temperature
  • Hypothermia is always a concern with anesthesia and ensuring adequate body temperature is important for appropriate anesthetic metabolism and quick recovery from anesthesia
Additionally, a board certified veterinary anesthesiologist is available upon request.


Victoria M. Lukasik, DVM
Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Anesthesiology


Dr. Lukasik, a board certified veterinary anesthesiologist, is responsible for the Southern Arizona Animal Pain Center, a special service provided by Southern Arizona Veterinary Specialty & Emergency Center. In addition, she has her own Veterinary Anesthesiology referral practice. Dr. Lukasik has over 16 years experience working with animals, including 8 years as an emergency and urgent care specialist.

Dr. Lukasik received her undergraduate degree from the University of Arizona and her doctorate in veterinary medicine from Washington State University, where she was awarded the Outstanding Senior Student in Medicine and Surgery (across all disciplines) and the Dorothy Eggerman Memorial Compassion Scholarship Award. She has received awards from the American College of Veterinary Anesthesiologists, research awards from the National Institutes of Health and the National Cancer Institute, and actively participates on a committee at the National Cancer Institute. In addition, Dr. Lukasik is involved in research at the Arizona Health Sciences Center at the University of Arizona and has published numerous professional articles and contributed to textbooks on the field of anesthesia.

Dr. Lukasik received her Diplomate status from the American College of Veterinary Medicine (DACVA) in anesthesia in 1996. A Diplomate signifies advanced training and is the highest medical designation for veterinarians.

Dr. Lukasik is a member of the following professional organizations:

  • American College of Veterinary Anesthesiologists
  • American Veterinary Medical Association
  • American Animal Hospital Association
  • American Association of Equine Practitioners
  • Arizona Veterinary Medical Association
  • Southern Arizona Veterinary Medical Association
  • Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care Society