willowchow:
kpwlee: He was all happy and sweet trotting off with the vet tech,
Doesn't that kill you? I start tearing up when I watch Willow trot off all happy not realizing she's getting stuck with yet another needle when she gets there. They are so naive and innocent. 
They really don't get strung out like we do -- she KNOWS she's gonna get stuck Lori -- but she knows she'll get **attention** and that makes it ok. Cos she knows they're happy to see her ... she's extremely willing to put up with the pain in exchange for the positive attention.
They aren't too dim to realize -- they DO pair those things mentally and they *KNOW* what's gonna happy -- they literally are just able to make the mental exchange and be fine with it.
One of the many reasons most dogs are better "adjusted" than we humans are. WE hold grudges and play the angles too much!!
kpwlee: I am trying to not visualize him in the kennel all cut up
And therein is wisdom. Rather they've sedated him so he gets good sleep and his body can HEAL. Then you'll pick him up and he'll be happy. Don't ask for pain meds -- not that you want him IN pain, but pain is the best weapon nature has to keep him more sedentary. If he feels too goo he'll be too apt to over-do.
Holler if I can help you with anything -- you have my number i think? I really never mind --
You might find chamomile tea a better help than you'd believe. It's soothing to the tummy (and don't be surprised if he's RAVENOUS for water -- the anesthesia/sedative combo can do that sometimes, and if he's been sleeping heavy he could be a tad dehydrated.) -- but it really can take the edge off and help them generally relax and just feel a bit better all over. It's comforting somehow. It's not a major pain reliever - it's just a little extra help. And if you can put the soggy herbs in his food all the better!