Creekside's "Ask The Dr."

 

 

please see our legal disclaimer Table of Contents What about chewy dental bones? What about toothbrushing? Is my dog overweight? What about my "fat cat"? Are tablescraps really SO bad? Q: I give my dog those chewy dental bones. She also eats a dry dog food which I've heard is best for her teeth. Isn't that enough?  Dr. Crowe's Answer: Most Important, be sure you watch your dog while he/she eats any chew. Dogs that bite large pieces off and try to swallow them without chewing first can choke or not be able to pass large pieces. The "gobblers"may not be able to safely eat softer chews. If your dog gnaws the chews at a moderate pace they will help clean the molars and premolars, which are the primary chewing teeth, yet the canines and incisors will get no benefit from this. To get the best dental preventive care you should brush your dogs teeth daily or at least use an antibacterial gel daily to help kill the bacteria that cause plaque and tarter to build up.  Back to Top Q:My dog is not about to let me brush his teeth. The last time we tried he got mad and attacked the toothbrush leaving it in shreds: We were afraid to push the issue. How important is brushing  and what if we don't? Dr. Crowe's Answer: Brushing is the best way to prevent dental disease in dogs, cats and people! Just like children, our pets must be introduced to the toothpaste and toothbrush and taught how to have their teeth brushed. Most dogs that attack the tooth brush are doing so because they are afraid and are trying to protect themselves  from an unfamiliar object being put in their mouth. Patience and making the experience a fun and rewarding  one are the best approach. We will be happy to demonstrate techniques and give you personalized instructions and tips to make brushing an enjoyable part of your daily routine and help your pet to see it as treat time rather than a threat! At your next visit to Creekside ask for a brushing demo! Back to Top Q: How do I know if my pet is overweight? Dr. Crowe's Answer: While breeds have approximate weight ranges that are considered standard for the breed, the best way to judge the body condition is to look at your dog or cat and feel them with your hands. We score the body condition on a scale of 1 to 5, with 1 being emaciated, or too thin, and 5 being obese, or too big! A score of 3 is considered the ideal body condition score. If you view your pet from above, you should see an obvious waistline just in front of the hips. From the side there should be an obvious tuck up from the chest to the abdomen (belly). You must actually feel the sides of the chest and should be able to feel each individual rib without being able to see them. The same is true of the spinous processes on your pets back, easily felt, not seen. If your pet has the shape of a pear when viewed from above and the abdomen extends down from the chest rather than up, it is obese. Feel free to stop by Creekside and have your pet assessed for its body condition score. We can weigh  your pet and show your exactly how to evaluate the body so you can keep your pet at optimum weight which will ensure the best chance at a long and healthy life with you. Back to Top Q: Both my cat and my dog have a few extra pounds. Both seem fat and happy. Is it such a big deal that they're a "little overweight"? [Answer pending] Back to Top Q: They say you shouldn't give your pet chocolate or table scraps. My dog eats everything I eat,  ice cream included: Is that wrong and if so, why, specifically? Nothing bad has ever happened. [Answer pending] Back to Top