What's the point in preop blood work when not getting the procedure will cause death anyway? Also, can I give my dog pepto? She's throwing up from a tooth infection, can't get to the vet for a few days. Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Female | 14 years and 6 months old | 70 lbs

This is a great question! Pre-operative blood work can be helpful even for procedures that really need to be done, because it allows your veterinarian to adjust their anesthetic plan if needed - for a kidney or liver problem, for example, that might show up on lab work. Some dogs may need reduced doses of certain drugs, or may have health issues that would require IV fluids for an extended period of time prior the procedure. Pepto-Bismol is generally safe for dogs and should not cause any harm, but it may not help much - in my experience, it isn't usually very effective for vomiting in dogs. You can try withholding food for the next 12 hours to give her stomach a chance to settle, then feed a bland diet of plain boiled chicken and rice until you are able to see the vet. I hope she's feeling better soon!