Health

We tend to think that dog’s teeth are different from our own human ones, but in fact they can have many of the same dental health problems. One of these is cavities, which are small holes or weaknesses in the tooth. We explore what cavities in dogs really are, what they look like, how they’re diagnosed and how to prevent them from occurring in your dog. What are cavities in dogs'teeth? Cavities in dog’s teeth are small holes in the tooth caused by decay. They tend to appear as a result of a build-up of bacteria in the dog’s mouth. Once bacteria have started to build up it produces a type of acid, which, if left untreated, eats away at a dog’s teeth and causes a loss of calcium which is normally found in the enamel of its tooth. Once this calcium is lost, the tooth begins to decay and you may start to see small holes or cavities appear. The good news for pet owners is that cavities in dogs are rarer than cavities in human teeth. This is in part because of the way a dog’s teeth are shaped. As humans, we have teeth in our mouth that have a horizontal crown shape, meaning they have flat sides and tops. This shape allows food deposits to naturally sit in and between the teeth, which can then encourage bacterial growth. Most of a dog’s teeth are separate and shaped like a pointy cone. This conical shape makes it harder for food deposits to be retained on the teeth surface, which in turn makes it harder for bacteria to grow. The exception to this is the molar teeth at the back of the mouth. Dogs also have saliva of a more alkaline p H which can help reduce acids and the risk of dog cavities. This being said, bacteria and cavities can still form in your dog’s mouth, so it’s important to keep a good dental health routine and regularly check for any issues.

Paralysed dogs often take a lot of special care to ensure they can continue living their lives happily and healthily. That’s why the experts at Purina have created this article to tell you everything you need to know about looking after them, as well as dog wheelchair advice for helping those with hind leg paralysis get back on their feet. Although sometimes the only option for your dog is an upsetting one, in other cases rehabilitation can take place. Dog paralysis is an inability to use one or more limbs, usually due to a spinal cord injury. This can of course be distressing for you, and you may have to make difficult decisions. Your dog’s treatment and prognosis will depend on the cause of their paralysis and the limbs affected, and your vet will advise you on the chances that your dog will regain use of their limbs again. Looking after a paralysed dog is a big commitment and can at times be difficult. If you work long hours or have a busy family life, you may not be able to provide enough care. Rehabilitation centres are available in some areas; here, your dog will be looked after until they are well enough to be cared for at home. Larger veterinary practises, too, might hospitalise dogs for longer periods. Caring for a paralysed dog Dog paralysis is often life-changing. You may need to empty your dog’s bladder for them, at least initially, by applying gentle pressure on their abdomen – your vet should show you how to do this, and watch you while you practise. In time, some dogs will regain urinary function.

Knowing that your dog is in pain is a horrible feeling, and for many owners the first instinct is to go straight to the medicine cabinet to look for some sort of pain relief for their pet. However, we would always strongly advise against doing this and, if you think your dog is hurting, stay calm and call the vet. They will be able to offer you help and advice on what to do next. We would always advise against giving any medications to your pet and, if you think there is something wrong, you should get in touch with your vet – even if it’s an emergency your vet practice should have a phone number that you can call 24/7. One of the most common medications that owners consider giving to their dog at home is ibuprofen. Here is all you need to know about why you should never give your pet this pain medication.