"A veterinarian shall comply with the following standards when administering a general anesthetic:

1) Every animal shall be given a physical examination within twelve (12) hours prior to the administration of an anesthetic; and

2) The animal under general anesthesia shall be under continuous observation until at least the swallowing reflex has returned and shall not be released to the client until the animal demonstrates a righting reflex. This shall not preclude direct transfer of an animal under anesthesia to a suitable facility for referred observation."

20 CSR 2270-4.031 Minimum Standards for Practice Techniques (6)