MDR1 (multi-drug resistance gene). It's found in herding breeds like collies, aussies, etc., and somel other breeds as well. It's a mutation that causes an adverse reaction to certain drugs if the dog is given those drugs. The only way to know is to test the dog to see if has the gene or is a carrier. (I think that just involves a cheek swab.)
Were these dogs related to each other? I wonder if that gene was the cause, or if the vet was negligent, or if it was just terrible luck. It's hard to say.
Before surgery, I talk to the vet and make sure I understand what kind of drugs and anesthetic they use, and how the dog is monitored during anesthesia and while recovering. Just like with people, there is always a risk. Some vets have all the fancy, high tech equipment for monitoring, but others rely more on an assistant to do it manually. I prefer 'high tech' but either can be safe if done correctly. There are not nearly as many vet anesthesiologists in the vet world as there are in human medicine.
I'm not an expert on Australian Shepherds, BTW. I've never had one. I just read about this gene when I was helping a friend research the breed. Her first aussie died at a ripe old age of about 14 yrs old, I think, and she has one that's about 1 year old and has had no health problems that I know of. I'm so, so sorry for your friend. To have a dog die after a flea dip of all things... and then another after routine teeth cleaning. There is always a risk with anesthesia, but we get so used to thinking it's no big deal.
>> She took her current Aussie to the vet for neutering. When he came home he was lethargic. They took him back and the doctor put him on an IV to flush his system of any anesthesia?>>
This s/l either the dog had a bad reaction to the anesthesia, or the vet went overboard and gave too much...
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There is something called the MDR1 gene...sm - ex animo
