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Chihuahuas teeth

19 16:37:58

Question
Hi,
I have a 7 year old small chihuahua. She has never had the best looking teeth, which I hear is common in this breed, but I have hestitated to have her teeth cleaned b/c of the risk of putting her to sleep. I was just bathing her today and I noticed something fell from her mouth. When I picked it up it was a like a set of teeth- 3 to be exact, that were all on one bridge. I freaked out but she did not make a sound, so it must not have hurt her. Is this bad, what does it probably mean, and should I take her to her vet becuase of this? Sorry, I have more than one question..but I am worried about her. She also has never lost any teeth prior to this. Hopefully you can help-thanks!

Answer

Marie Peppers Ask the
Hi Nicole - Yes, she can be checked by the vet just to make sure there is no infection in the areas. If you see no blood or swelling it should be ok.  I understand your concern about the ultrasonic teeth cleaning.  I can't tell you not to do this but it is something that can be risky in an older chi doggie.  If you do decide to have the cleaning done ask for liver function testing prior to the surgery..
I call it a surgery because they use anesthesia and up the cat UNDER.
If the liver function test comes back with good levels, then the danger is minimal for anesthesia.  

YOU may want to start your kid on some NuVET plus - the powder form would be great to mix with his food... ALL he would need is 1/2 a dosage per day ( .30 cents per day) - it would help his Immune system and his teeth.
Here is the ordering link:
http://www.apluspetcare.com/untitled4.html

Also, a good dog food will do wonders for his teeth.  Make sure he eats some WET canned food a few times per week or mix the WET and dry food daily.  I live Innova EVO or Wellness Core canned and wet foods.  Let me know if you need help changing foods.


Good Luck !

Marie Peppers LPN MA
mtnmom@gci.net