In this episode of the Veterinary Anesthesia Nerds podcast we sit down with renowned veterinary anesthesiologist Dr. Sheilah Robertson to tackle the unique challenges of pediatric anesthesia. When dealing with tiny kittens and puppies, Dr. Robertson shares her expertise on how physiology, drug metabolism, and peri-anesthetic care differ in young patients. The conversation covers practical considerations such as choosing safe induction agents, managing hypothermia and hypoglycemia, and setting realistic expectations with pet owners. With her wealth of clinical experience, Dr. Robertson offers evidence-based tips and pearls that help veterinary teams feel more confident providing anesthesia to their smallest and most fragile patients.

Dr. Sheilah Robertson is an internationally recognized veterinary anesthesiologist and animal welfare advocate with a career spanning academia, clinical practice, research, and leadership. A graduate of the University of Glasgow with a PhD from Bristol, she is board-certified in anesthesia and animal welfare, and currently serves as Senior Medical Director at Lap of Love Veterinary Hospice and Courtesy Professor at the University of Florida. She has published extensively on pain management and anesthesia, contributed to global guidelines such as the WSAVA Pain Council and AAFP Feline Anesthesia Guidelines, and held leadership roles including President of the ACVAA. Her contributions have earned her numerous honors, including the AVMA Animal Welfare Award and the WVA Global Veterinary Award for Animal Welfare.