Page 2 - Small Talk - September 2012

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...we consider some of the conditions that our
pets may suffer from as they become older. Ageing
itself is obviously an inevitable consequence of
advancing years, don't assume that you can't
help your pet - managing many of these conditions
will allow them to grow old gracefully and in comfort.
We also have the second part of our dog behaviour
feature and an article containing some handy hints
and tips for moving house which can be a
stressful time for pets and owners.
In this
autumn
edition
of Small Talk...
Clean Teeth -
Perfect smile!
Virtually all older pets tend to suffer from
bad breath as their teeth and gums quite
naturally grow old too. Dentures aren't
available for dogs yet, but removal of
some teeth may be the only option when
tartar and debris builds up, bacteria
multiply, and infection and loosening of
teeth results. Removal of these teeth often
results in dogs feeling much better, and
looking happier.
We all worry about our older pets undergoing
anesthetics but with modern techniques, we can
take many measures to protect your pet. At least
our pets don't have to listen to the whirring of the
dentist's drill!
We all know that we should brush our pets' teeth but
starting this with an older and possibly stubborn dog
might be quite a daunting challenge. You don't have
to brush them for a full two minutes; just 30 seconds
around the molar teeth at the top on both sides will
be immensely beneficial. These are the teeth that are
most affected by decay. A specifically designed
brush is the perfect tool, but a small finger brush
will be far easier to control when you start, and is
less scary for the dog. Dogs also prefer the poultry
or beef flavoured toothpastes rather than the
mint varieties.
There are many options as well as brushing such as
the very popular dental chews but beware of the
extra calories! Some types do have fewer calories
whilst a few vet specific ones are also an excellent
choice as they contain chlorhexidine which is superb
at killing bacteria that contribute to bad breath and
tooth decay. Diet foods that clean the teeth whilst
your dog eats are also available and are clinically
proven to work. Dogs also spend longer eating it,
so meal time lasts a little longer.
Easier still are water and food additives. Plaque
Off
TM
is a seaweed extract that you simply sprinkle
on their food. Alternatively, Aquadent
TM
can be
added to the water where the Xylitol
TM
helps look
after their teeth. Now that really is simple! As you
can see, there is an awful lot you can do to look
after your dog's teeth and it needn't be as scary
as you think.
Bad breath can really
test the relationship
between an owner
and their dog!
by
Gareth Harries
BVMS CertSAS MRCVS
Wright & Morten
Veterinary Surgeons