Bright Whites for Pets: helps save teeth for dogs & cats!

Although most of us take good care of our own teeth, our pets aren’t so lucky. Beyond a higher incidence of dental disease, our pets are also very prone to fractured teeth and crooked teeth, as well as lesions that can’t be seen on routine exams. The good news in all of this is that the Veterinary Dentist has the tools and techniques to help keep your pet’s smile fresh!

80 percent of pets have dental disease as early by age two. However, just because you see pearly white teeth in your dog or cat’s mouth does not mean that disease is not present. With the majority of the tooth below the gum line and out of sight, many problems can remain hidden for long periods of time.
New tools, such as the use of digital dental x-rays, have helped veterinarians and veterinary dentists to find these unseen lesions. Dental experts state that 42% of cats and 28% of dogs have problems that are located below the gum line.

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I live overseas were vet care is very limited. My 2 yr old cat has a severe mouth infection. It appears to be a ulcer or sore in the back of mouth Have tried local vet for over a yr without success. Any suggestions?

TM

Hi TM,
Try flushing out the cats mouth with 1 tsp salt mixed into a cup of water to soothe and help heal the ulcers.

A viral problem may be the cause-be sure your cat is vaccinated for the basics and have your cat blood tested for Feline Leukemia and FIV to be sure he or she is not infected.

PAAWS is a great supplement to boost your cats internal immunty and would be very helpful for your cat.

If I can help further please let me know.

Thank you,
Dr Carol Osborne, DVM

Hi,

Just happened to run across your website looking for homeopathic cures for doggie dry eye.

I am a foster parent and board member for Michigan Pug Rescue.  I am currently fostering a 9 year old male pug.  He came to me last year with hard crusty black skin and smelled horrible.  His ears were raw and full and draining stuff and he was missing fur everywhere.  He was constantly scratching which we later found out lead to his crustiness and lack of fur.  He’s come a long way with holistic treatment.  He still has very bad allergies, both inhaled and food, but has a full thick coat and no more ear problems.  What I am left with is the third eyelid sticking and dry eye. What would your suggestion be. He scratches at his eyes constantly so I have to put a collar on him.  He is now on no grain Natures Variety Rabbit food (1 cup daily) and I mix it with green beans because he always acts like he is starving and looks very underweight.

What products of yours would you recommend I try to help him with his dry eyes and his allergies.  His lips often swell.

Also, I have worked with companies that offer us  discount because we are a non profit rescue and on a limited budget.
Is this something we would be offered through your company also?

Thank you so much.

Debbie

Hi Debbie,
I can help you and am glad to-I also run a non profit-if we talk on the phone I can help you more easily. PAAWS will reduce the allergic oubreaks by ~80% by boosting his immunity and improving his overall health status-cost $29.95 for 30 days assuming he weighs about 20-30 pounds.

Chlorpheramine maleate 4mg tablets will help reduce the current itching-cost $3.98/100 tablets.

I have a great topical product not yet on my site called Dermaluster that will also help-cost $19.95/180ml bottle that should last about a year.

Distilled water is also beneficial as are weekly organic oatmeal baths.

Your Best Friend’s Best Friend,

Dr. Carol Osborne, DVM

The inside lining of the ear is normally smooth with a small amount of wax buildup. Many problems can cause the ears to become irritated, inflamed, or infected. Any of these conditions left untreated can lead to more complicated problems, including inner ear infections, hearing loss, and hematomas. A Hematoma occurs when blood vessels rupture in the earflap and cause a big swollen ear. Abscess formation within the brain is a potential risk with long-term bacterial ear infections. Most dogs let you know their ears are uncomfortable by scratching, shaking, or tilting their heads. Breeds with long floppy ears and narrow ear canals, like Cocker Spaniels, are especially at risk as well as dogs that are swimmers and those that live in warm, humid environments. Vets often use terms like “cocker ear” and “swimmer’s ear” to describe ear problems in these dogs.

SYMPTOMS
* Itchy, red irritated ears.
* Unpleasant ear odor.
* Brown, black, or yellowish discharge from ears.

CAUSES
* Ear mites are most common in adult cats and puppies. These microscopic mites have hairs on their body that irritate the ears. They are also responsible for the itching and the dark brown coffee-like residue. Mites live their entire life cycle within the ear but are contagious and can be spread to other pets in your home. Check all the animals in your home once mites are diagnosed.

* Inhalant allergies to pollen, mold, dust, tobacco smoke, etc. are very common in dogs. In addition to itching their ears, many dogs also lick their feet and rub their faces. Ear infections associated with these allergies often recur until the underlying cause of the allergy is determined and treated.

* Flea allergies can occasionally involve the ears.

* Small numbers of yeast normally live in the ear. Large numbers cause a yellowish, smelly, waxy buildup. Dark, deep ear canals with minimal airflow promote an ideal environment for yeast to flourish.

* Bacteria often infect the ears. Bacterial ear infections generally result in a painful smelly pus-type discharge.

* Trauma to the ear from foreign materials like plant seeds or even over-aggressive ear cleaning can also result in painful inflamed ears.

(NOTE: An otoscope is designed (and illuminated) to allow complete examination of the ear canal.)

WHAT YOU AND YOUR VET CAN DO
* Your vet will examine a sample of the ear discharge under the microscope. This is called a cytology and will identify the cause of the problem. The most effective treatment will be determined according to whether bacteria, yeast, or mites are present. For long-term and/or recurrent ear infections, a culture of the ear discharge pinpoints the exact type or types of organisms present. The laboratory can also determine the medication best suited to eliminate the organism and cure the infection.

* Calendula makes an effective ear cleaning solution. Put one teaspoon of Calendula along with half a teaspoon of sea salt into one cup of water. Squirt the cleaner into each ear canal and massage for five to ten seconds. Use a cotton ball or piece of gauze to remove the debris.

* Mixing equal parts of white vinegar and water also makes a good ear cleaning solution.

* The ear infection is cleared once the residue is gone, along with the odor and discomfort. After that, cleaning out your dog’s ears once a week helps prevent recurrences and allows early detection of new problems. Never clean any deeper than you can see and avoid Q-tips.

TIP
“Milbemycin” is the active ingredient in the product Sentinel, a monthly tablet labeled for prevention of heartworms, fleas, intestinal worms, and ear mites. Selamectin is a new monthly product approved in dogs (and cats) and is effective against ear mites, sarcoptic mange, heartworm and fleas.

WARNING
If your dog continually scratches and shakes its head because of an ear infection, the blood vessels in the outer flap of his ear can be damaged. Blood will leak into the earflap and causes a large swollen ear called an Aural Hematoma. Treatment involves surgery to drain out the blood. The key is trying to prevent the ear form refilling which is difficult and recurrences are common. Surgery is generally indicated to remove ear tumors and polyps.

COMPLEMENTARY TREATMENTS
HOMEOPATHIC REMEDIES
For recurrent severe infections or excess wax, use Silicea 30c: two whole or three crushed pellets every 12 hours for three treatments. Allow no food 30 minutes before or after treatment. Wait one month, then reassess. For allergic, red, irritated ears try Pulsatilla 6c (windflower): one pellet every third day for 30 days. Allow no food 10 minutes before or after treatment. In chronic cases your vet may recommend Tellurium 30c. The usual dosage is one tablet twice daily for three days, then once a week until the ears are healed.

Dogs suffer form a variety of cancers on their face and head. The mouth is a common site for cancer. Breeds with dark pigment, like black cocker spaniels and chows, are prone to melanomas in the mouth. Signs include swelling around apparently normal teeth. Cancer of the nose and nasal sinuses accounts for 2 percent of all cancer in dogs. Sniffing chemicals and carcinogens like herbicides and pesticides are though to be causative factors. High-energy radiation therapy provides the longest survival time for nasal tumors. Dogs survive for 12 to 18 months with this treatment but most eventually die as a result of the tumor.
(NOTE: Cancer is common in boxers.)

WARNING
A benign overgrowth of gum tissue is called an epulus. These growths are not uncommon and tend to become quite large. They can lead to gum disease because food deposits can become trapped in the gap between the tumor and the tooth allowing bacteria to multiply and attack the gums. These growths are benign and are not life threatening.

WHAT YOU AND YOUR VET CAN DO
* Look at your dog’s mouth regularly, on a daily basis if possible, so that you can identify problems early. Any growth in the mouth should be checked by your vet to establish a diagnosis.

* Limiting exposure to sunlight helps decrease the risk of developing skin, nose and mouth cancers. To avoid excessive sun, use sun block with 30 plus protection, keep your dog inside from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. when the sun is at its hottest and get your dog a jacket or even a hat if necessary.

COMPLEMENTARY TREATMENTS
HOMEOPATHIC REMEDIES
Two remedies that may help decrease the size of an epulus (gum growth). For dogs over eight years old, Caldaria fluorica 30c given twice each week can be beneficial, for younger dogs try Calcarea carbonica 30c twice a week.

Disease of the oral cavity is the most common health problem treated in small animal clinics today. At least 85 percent of all dogs and cats over two years old have gum disease. Left untreated, this is now known to be a leading cause of heart disease in pets and in people. Bacterial from the mouth are reabsorbed into the blood. They travel to the heart, settle in the heart valves and cause heart disease. Bacteria from the mouth also increase the risk of liver and kidney disease.

SYMPTOMS

* Bad breath.
* Red swollen gums.
* Dark, discolored teeth.

SIGNS OF DENTAL PROBLEMS
* Breed, genetics, age, diet, and general health all contribute to the prevalence and severity of gum disease. If your dog is having trouble eating, chews differently than normal, is reluctant to eat, or paws at his face, he might have a dental problem. Dental problems often also cause depression and lethargy.

Certified dental specialists now offer state-of-the-art dental care similar to that available for people. Root canals, caps, crowns, dental implants and even braces are available for dogs.

COMPLEMENTARY TREATMENTS
HERBAL REMEDIES
Myrrh (Commiphora myrrha) promotes gums to heal. Add a teaspoonful of the resin to one pint (500 ml) of boiling water. Let the solution cool, then spritz the mouth. Rubbing oil from a vitamin E capsule on the gums once daily helps reduce redness and swelling.

WHAT YOU AND YOUR VET CAN DO
* Good dental care is important. Bacteria combine with saliva and food particles to form plaque. Plaque accumulates in the spaces between the teeth and gums, and combines with calcium salts to from tartar (which is also called calculus). The bacteria, plaque, and tartar irritate and inflame the gums, causing gum disease. Gingivitis is the medical term used for this condition.

* Small breeds are more prone to dental disease than larger breeds because their teeth are often too large for the size of their mouth. This causes crowding, which lead to a rapid accumulation of bacteria and plaque.

* To help prevent dental problems, have your pets teeth checked at least once a year by your vet; and brush your dog’s teeth regularly. The goal is to brush the outer surfaces of the upper and lower teeth for 30 seconds each.
* Try to brush at least three times per week, brushing once daily is optimal.

* Use a toothpaste made for dogs. For fussy dogs, try using beef broth or chicken soup on the brush. For best results, start brushing as a puppy.

* A professional dental cleaning involves the use of an ultrasonic machine that vibrates the debris and calculus off the surface of the teeth. Calculus from under the gum tissue is carefully removed using a hand scaler. Then the teeth are polished and a fluoride treatment, which helps prevent cavities, is the final step.

* Commercially available diets are available that help reduce tartar formation and help prevent bad breath. A homemade diet using 20 percent meat and eggs, 60 percent fresh cooked vegetables, and 20 percent fresh chopped greens also promotes dental hygiene.

WARNING

One of the genes for hairlessness present in breeds like the Mexican hairless, American hairless terrier and Chinese crested is also linked to teeth. These breeds often lose 90 percent of their teeth by the time they are two to three years old.

COMPLEMENTARY TREATMENTS
HERBAL REMEDIES
Special canine brushing kits are available that consist of a toothbrush and an oil-based sage toothpaste.

The tough tendonous sections of raw meat with gristle act as a natural toothbrush and most dogs love them as a treat.

After your dog has had dental work, an oral rinse made out of goldenseal (Hydrastis Canadensis) speeds healing. To make the rinse, add one teaspoonful of the powdered goldenseal rootstock to one pint of water. Bring to a boil and let it cool. Siphon off the clear part of the solution and use a syringe or a turkey baster to flush this into your dog’s mouth. Keep the dog’s head down so he doesn’t swallow the solution. Use the rinse twice daily for two to three days as needed.

HOMEPATHIC REMEDIES
Fragaria 6c given three times a month can decrease the rate at which bacteria accumulate in the mouth.

(NOTE: Raw carrots help prevent plaque build-up.)

Cherry Eye is defined as a prolapse of the gland of the third eyelid. The medical term is glandular hypertrophy. The term Dry Eye describes changes that occur in the eye resulting from a lack of tears. Vets call this “KCS”, which stands for keratoconjunctivitis sicca. Both conditions are fairly common in dogs.

CHERRY EYE

* In addition to the upper and lower eyelids, dogs and cats have a third eyelid that originates from the inside corner of the eye, the area closest to the nose. This third eyelid acts like a windshield wiper and helps protect the eye. In addition, it contains a gland that produces 30 to 60 percent of the tear film. The tears keep the clear front part of the eye called the cornea lubricated. Cherry Eye is the term used when this gland prolapses or pops out from the third eyelid.

* The exact cause of Cherry Eye is somewhat controversial. Some experts believe it is a genetic condition because cocker spaniels, beagles, bulldogs, and Pekingese seem to be predisposed. But other breeds including bloodhounds, great Danes and basset hounds are also commonly affected. Whether or not trauma is also a cause is still a matter of debate between veterinary eye specialists.
* In dogs with Cherry Eye the prolapsed gland is red and fleshy. It looks like a small cherry that suddenly pops up and protrudes from the corner of the eye. If one eye is affected, the other eye may or may not also be affected at a later date. Dogs with Cherry Eye are usually less than a year old. In addition to the redness and swelling, a clear or mucus discharge may also occur.
* The best treatment for Cherry Eye is to surgically replace the gland back inside the third eyelid. That way the gland continues to produce “tears: and the risk of Dry Eye and corneal ulceration are prevented. The prognosis for cases treated by replacing this gland is excellent.
* Past treatments included surgical removal of the gland, this often lead to a lack of tear film production which resulted in Dry Eye. Ignoring the Cherry Eye is another option. Sometimes it goes away on its own in two to three weeks, other times it leads to further eye disease. The owner and vet need to discuss treatment options, which will vary depending on the breed, financial considerations, and the owner’s personal wishes.

DRY EYE (Keratoconjunctivitis sicca)

* Tears supply the cornea with oxygen and nutrients; therefore they are essential to keep the cornea healthy. If the cornea is deprived of oxygen and food because of a lack of tear film, destructive changes occur quickly, leading to a condition called Dry Eye. The cornea can become pigmented, scarred, and ulcerated. Partial vision loss can also result. The eyes of dogs with Dry Eye burn and sting all the time just like ours do on a windy day. Diagnosis is made by a tear test that measures how many tears the eye produces in one minute. In this case, low levels of tear production are detected.
* Dry Eye can result from surgical removal of the gland of the 3rd eyelid in Cherry Eye cases. Other causes include low circulating levels of thyroid hormone as can occur in Thyroid Disease, tear gland infections caused by the Canine Distemper Virus, and Immune System Diseases like Cancer.
* Topical antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs are used to treat secondary bacterial infections of the eye and reduce corneal inflammation, respectively. Lubricating eye ointments help keep the cornea moist. The drug Cyclosporine effectively relieves signs for many dogs and often also causes an increase in actual tear production. Pilocarpine and the anti-cancer drug Interferon also effectively stimulate tear production in certain cases.
* A surgical procedure called a Parotid Duct Transposition (PDT) is a worthwhile consideration for cases that do not respond to medication.
* With consistent therapy, most cases of Dry Eye carry a good prognosis, but without treatment, recurrent corneal ulcers, bacterial infections, and even blindness can result.

COMPLEMENTARY TREATMENTS
HOMEOPATHIC REMEDIES
Zincum metallicum 30c, given twice daily, may be helpful in cases of Dry Eye, especially when the treatment is used in conjunction with topical eye lubricants like artificial tears.

Cataracts are the second leading eye disease in dogs. A normal lens, which sits behind the pupil, is transparent and focuses incoming light on to the retina. The retina sends the image to the brain where vision is perceived. When the cells and protein of the lens begin to deteriorate, a cataract forms. The lens gets cloudy and light cannot be transmitted to the retina, so vision is impaired.

SYMPTOMS
Change in color of one or both eyes: milky white or bluish-gray.

CAUSES
* The majority of cataracts are inherited.
* Juvenile cataracts are inherited and occur at a young age. Cocker spaniels, Poodles of all sizes, and Siberian Huskies are breeds commonly affected. There are dissolving types in which eye drops containing cortisone clear the lens and restore vision. Non-dissolving types of cataracts result in irreversible lens damage and blindness.
* “Geriatric” cataracts are part of aging.
* Diseases, primarily Diabetes, can result in cataract formation.
* Irritation of the eye due to trauma or infection rarely causes cataracts.

WHAT YOUR VET CAN DO
* There are no medications effective to treat or prevent cataracts. Therapy requires surgical removal of the lens.
* The sooner the surgery is done, the better the chance for success. The procedure used is called phacoemulsification and involves a machine that emits high-frequency sound waves that destroy the lens. A suction device then removes the lens particles from the eye. An artificial lens, called an intraocular lens implant (IOL) replaces the old lens. The success rate is 90 to 95 percent and vision is quickly restored. The surgery takes approximately one hour per eye. Post operatively, discomfort is minimal and hospitalization is not required.
* Prior to surgery the vet will run an electroretinogram (ERF) to evaluate the function of the retina. Hereditary eye problems including Progressive Retinal Atrophy are also ruled out to ensure surgical success.

WARNING
Responsible breeders should have all their dogs pass a CERF examination prior to breeding to ensure that their bloodlines are free of hereditary eye disorders. This exam can only be performed by Board Certified eye specialists and it detects several inherited eye problems including cataracts in very young puppies before any signs are apparent.

(NOTE: Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) is an inherited disease which causes degeneration of the retina and irreversible blindness. Most breeds, i.e. Beagles, Border Collies, and Borzoi are affected at 6 to 8 years of age. Cocker Spaniels, Irish Setters, and Akitas can be affected at 1 to 3 years of age. There is no treatment for any form of Retinal Degeneration but this disease can be detected with a CERF examination.)

COMPLEMENTARY TREATMENTS
HOMEOPATHIC REMEDIES
Conium maculatum 6c (poison hemlock) one pellet taken once daily for 30 days can be especially helpful when a cataract is due to injury. Either Silicea 30c or Phosphorus 30c work better in advanced cases. Give one tablet twice daily for three days, then decrease the dose to one tablet given twice a week or every 3rd day.

A corneal ulcer is an abrasion to the top layer of tissue lining the cornea which is the clear part of the eye. Corneal Ulcers are the third most common eye problem in dogs. Many ulcers are caused by trauma from foreign objects like foxtails and seed hulls from grass and weeds that can lodge under the eyelid. Scratches resulting from rough play between new puppies and kittens is also a common cause. Occasionally, bathing and grooming can result in an ulcer. Applying an eye lubricant prior to bathing and grooming helps protect the eyes from shampoo and hair. Genetic conditions involving extra eyelashes (Ectopic cilia), inadequate tear production (Dry Eye), and rolled in eyelids (Entropion) also irritate the cornea and can result in ulcers. Certain breeds suffer more than others. Breeds with pushed-in noses, and those with big, round eyes that can’t blink very well like Pekinese, Pugs and Shitzu’s are predisposed. Blinking spread the tears over the cornea, which keeps it moist and helps prevent ulcer formation. These breeds tend to get dried-out eyes which are prone to ulcers. Squinting and tearing are common signs and occur because ulcers are quite painful. The eye contains more nerves than any other body part relative to its size which is why the pain is so severe.

WHAT YOUR VET CAN DO
* Diagnosis is confirmed by staining the eye with a dye that causes the ulcerated (abraded) corneal tissue to turn a greenish color. With proper treatment, most ulcers heal in three to five days. Medication generally consists of a topical lubricant and a topical antibiotic. Both are usually applied at four to six hour intervals. The eye is restained a few days later to be sure the ulcer has healed. Ulcers that do not heal promptly (within seven days) should immediately be referred to an eye specialist to prevent corneal perforation.

COMPLEMENTARY TREATMENTS
HOMEOPATHIC REMEDIES
To relieve pain and inflammation of the eye, Aconitum napellus 30c (monkshood) may be helpful. Give the dog two whole or three crushed pellets. Allow no food for one hour before or one hour after the treatment. Wait 30 days, reassess the dog’s condition, then repeat the treatment if necessary.

Yours dog’s eyes should normally be clear, bright, and free of discharge. Red eyes in a dog can signal problems requiring treatment from eye drops to emergency surgery. Conjunctivitis is the most common eye problem in dogs and is defined as an inflammation of the white membranes lining the inside of the eyelids. It leads to red, swollen, itchy, watery eyes. Being able to recognize the signs of an eye problem or injury are the best ways to prevent permanent eye damage and insure visual integrity.

SYMPTOMS
* Red eyes.
* Mucousy or watery eye discharge.
* Thick yellowish-green eye discharge.
* Swollen eyes.
* Pawing and/or rubbing eyes.

CAUSES

1. Allergies are a major cause of conjunctivitis in dogs. Dogs overly sensitive to pollen, dust and mold often rub and paw at their eyes continuously.
2. Bacteria commonly causes conjunctivitis along with a thick yellowish-green eye discharge.
3. Unvaccinated puppies with distemper virus usually get conjunctivitis.
4. Inherited Eye Diseases involving the eyelids and eyelashes irritate the eye and may result in conjunctivitis.
      a. Entropion is a condition in which the eyelids roll inward which causes the eyelashes to contact the surface of the eye. This condition usually involves both eyes and is quite painful. In addition to conjunctivitis, partial or complete loss of vision can result if left untreated. Squinting and tearing are the most common signs. Surgical correction involves removal of a narrow strip of skin and muscle from the eyelid. Stitches are then used to evert the eyelid so that it lies in a normal position. The Sharpei, English Bulldog and Chow Chow are the breeds most prone.
     b. Eyelash Disease is a group of conditions in which eyelashes or hairs injure the eye.

* Trichiasis is a condition in which normal hairs lie on and irritate the eye. This is common in Pekingese. The long hairs on their face and in the folds of their nose irritate the eyes and cause conjunctivitis. Prevention requires regular trimming of these hairs.

* Ectopic Cilia are abnormal hairs found on the inside of the eyelid. These are quite painful. Surgical freezing is necessary to remove these offensive hairs.
* Distichiasis occurs when an eyelash occurs at an abnormal position along the eye or eyelid which irritates the eye.

WARNING

In addition to eyelid and eyelash disease, cataracts and diseases of the retina are also inherited. They can easily go undetected until quite advanced. Most are quite painful and blindness is not an uncommon consequence. A Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF) examination is an eye exam that can only be performed by a certified veterinary eye specialist. It is used to detect inherited eye diseases and can be given at a young age. Responsible breeders should not breed any dog or cat who fails a CERF Exam. Potential owners should ask whether or not the parents received and passed the CERF Exam. Neutering or spaying animals with these hereditary conditions insures that the problem will not be passed on to future generations.

COMPLEMENTARY TREATMENTS

HERBAL REMEDIES
For red, itchy eyes, use raspberry leaf tea as an eyewash, or put a drop of cod liver oil in the affected eye three to four times a day. Two to three drops of raw cucumber juice applied 3 to 4 times a day also helps soothe irritated, red eyes.

HERBAL CONJUNCTIVITIS EYEWASH
Mix one cup of Rosemary with ½ cup of Thyme. Add four cups of water and boil for 15 minutes. Strain and cool. Use a cotton ball soaked in the solution to bathe the eyes and clean secretions every four to six hours or as needed.