Dear Dr. Forsythe: I have a very old dachshund that has very bad teeth. I’ve had them cleaned several times and now he only has a few left. Last year they had to take out seven teeth when he had his teeth cleaned. I recently heard something about a vaccine that prevents dental disease. I was wondering if this would be a good thing for me to get for my Sydney? I want him to keep the few teeth he has left if possible. Thanks for your input.
Debra and Dianne
Dear Debra and Dianne: There is a vaccine that is made by Pfizer that some doctors use in young dogs to help prevent periodontal disease. The opinion of my colleagues seems to be mixed: some think the vaccine is not very helpful, while others seem to think it is a potential good thing to consider for use in young dogs. The vaccine is meant to be used in puppies and young dogs, and it is intended to help reduce the onset of bone loss in the tooth sockets and prevent redness along the gum line (gingivitis). While it doesn’t prevent calculi or tartar from forming, there is evidence to suggest that it does help reduce the redness along the gum line in pets that receive the injection. Some owners have reported that the vaccine (which is administered in the scruff like other vaccines) can be painful, but other than this, few reactions have been reported. Unfortunately, your Sydney is probably too old to appreciate any benefit from this vaccine. Regular brushing, dental preventatives such as greenies, chlorhex rinse, and annual dental cleanings are still the best way to keep Sydney’s mouth in the best health.
Good luck, Dr F.
Dear Dr. Forsythe: I just read something about canine influenza. Do I need to be worried?
The Butterworth’s
Dear Butterworth’s: You don’t need to be “worried”, just informed. Canine influenza is a newly emerging “flu” virus that causes serious disease in dogs. Since it was first reported in Florida in March 2003, 30 states have reported cases of canine influenza, including California. The most common sign of the disease is persistent cough. Some dogs only get a mild respiratory disease, but about 20 percent get more severe signs, including high fever (104-106 F fever) and runny nose. A small number of dogs have died from complications associated with the disease. The disease is spread the same way that human flu spreads – direct contact, cough or sneeze, or contaminated hands, clothing or other surfaces.
There is currently no specific treatment for canine influenza. As with all viruses, the disease must run its course. Supportive care such as fluids can help your dog fight infection, and antibiotics can be used for secondary bacterial infections. There is a vaccine available for use in areas where the virus becomes prevalent. There have been very few cases in the Sonoma area, so at this time I have not recommended the use of this vaccine to my clients.
Thanks for writing, Dr. F
Dear Dr. Forsythe: My name is Lee, I’m the woman who was about to commit a “crime” on my white trash neighbor several weeks ago over the noise from their pets. I wanted to write in with an update for you and your readers.
Since I last wrote in, I’ve found out that one of the neighbor’s two Chihuahuas recently had an unfortunate accident and passed on. We are NOT responsible for this accident!! The other Chihuahua got out with the larger dog and had no collar on, and as of today (two weeks later) they haven’t found him. The large dog was found and brought home. Turns out he is sweet as pie. He has no territory issues and never utters a PEEP. Things are so calm and cool in the neighborhood we even had beers with them the other day. Nice family, can’t wait to get to know them better. Thanks for the advice Dr. Forsythe. Much appreciated.
Sign me, Would never hurt a flea – even on a dog
Dear would never hurt a “flea:’ This is truly remarkable. The fact that you are now friends with these people and things turned out so amicable gives me hope in the impossible. I may even write to Glen Beck and ask for a dinner meeting. Who knows, maybe he and I could become buddies!!
Thanks for the update, Dr. F
