Many pet owners have never heard of the highly specialized field of veterinary dentistry. While routine dental care is the best way to prevent dental disease, serious oral complications can and will occur on some patients. In the past, when a dog had a "bad tooth" the most common treatment was just to pull it out. A basic extraction is still sometimes the right option, but many diseased teeth can actually be saved with proper attention. Enter the veterinary dentist.
Brett Beckman, DVM, FAVD, DAVDC, DAAPM is a board certified veterinary dentist at the top of his field. In his veterinary dental practices, he performs root canals, crown placement, complicated extractions, major oral surgery and much, much more. I have been fortunate enough to work directly with Dr. Beckman and learn a great deal about this fascinating field. Just in time for National Pet Dental Health Month, check out my interview with this accomplished veterinary dentist.
Photo courtesy of Dr. Brett Beckman
February is here, and that means it's National Pet Dental Health Month. It can be easy to overlook your dog's oral health on a day-to-day basis. This campaign is a great reminder to take care of your dog's teeth now and all year round.
Oral hygiene is an essential part of caring for your dog. Many people think "doggie breath" is inevitable. In reality, halitosis is a sign of an oral problem. Dental disease causes discomfort and can lead to loss of appetite, weight loss, and systemic diseases. Prevention is the cornerstone of canine dental health. Daily home care is essential, but dogs also need a professional cleaning about once a year (give or take depending on the dog). February is a great time to visit your vet for an oral exam and cleaning, as many offer discounts in honor of National Pet Dental Health Month. Regardless of the month, remember to keep those pearly whites sparkling.
Photo © José Carlos Cortizo Pérez on flickr
Show of hands (virtually): Who has had a dog with a cruciate injury? Who has known someone else who had a dog with a cruciate injury? My guess is that most hands are raised. Cruciate ligament rupture is among the most common of all canine health complications - orthopedic or not. It's a shame that all these happy, active dogs have to deal with the pain knee injuries. On the other hand, at least this is one health issue that can actually be managed.
After working for years in a specialty veterinary practice that included orthopedics, I'd guess that about 75% of the limping dogs I have seen out in the lobby had a busted cruciate. It's a shame, really. Why does it happen? Well, there could be a variety of reasons, but there is no surefire way to prevent it. However, chances are you're bound to encounter it yourself with one of your own dogs. So, better to educate yourself now. Get the lowdown on ruptured cruciate ligaments in dogs to prepare yourself for what you may face down the road (or what you may already be facing). Good news: it's treatable. Bad news: it can get pretty expensive. Have you dealt with cruciate problems in your dog? tell us about your experience.
