Dentistry
for Rescue Animals
For many animals in rescue, dental care has been overlooked for months, if not years. Whether it’s dogs rescued from hoarding situations or cats abandoned on the streets, poor oral health is common. Dental issues like plaque buildup, gum disease, tooth decay, and infections can cause extreme discomfort and lead to other serious health problems, including heart, kidney, and liver disease.
At Harmony Animal Rescue Clinic, we recognize the vital role dental care plays in ensuring the long-term health and comfort of rescued animals. Proper dental treatment improves their overall quality of life and increases their chances of adoption by providing them with clean, healthy teeth and fresh breath.
Common Dental Issues in Rescued Animals
Rescued animals often face a variety of dental problems due to neglect or poor nutrition. Some of the most common issues include:
- Periodontal Disease: A serious gum infection damages the soft tissue and bone supporting the teeth. Left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss and severe pain.
- Broken or Fractured Teeth: Many animals have broken or worn-down teeth due to improper chewing or traumatic injuries.
- Tooth Decay: Poor diet or a lack of dental care leads to cavities, which cause discomfort and, if left untreated, can lead to abscesses or infections.
- Oral Tumors: Sometimes, we discover tumors or abnormal growths that require further investigation and treatment.
- Oral Infections: These can result from untreated injuries, tooth decay, or abscesses and may spread to other parts of the body if not properly managed.
Signs of Dental Problems
Dogs and cats may not show obvious signs of dental pain. However, some indicators can help you identify potential issues, such as:
- Reluctance to eat or chew on one side of the mouth
- Excessive drooling or dropping food
- Bad breath (halitosis)
- Swollen or bleeding gums
- Loose or missing teeth
- Pawing at the mouth or face
- Visible tartar or plaque buildup
If you notice any of these signs, it’s essential to schedule a dental exam as soon as possible. Early detection and treatment can prevent further health complications and make a significant difference in the animal’s recovery and well-being.
What to Expect During a Veterinary Dental Exam
At our clinic, we offer dental exams for rescued animals. These exams include a thorough inspection of the teeth, gums, and oral cavity. This allows us to assess the animal’s dental health and determine the best course of action. We look for signs of infection, injury, and decay during the exam and recommend treatments as needed.
Our dental services include:
- Teeth Cleaning: We perform professional cleanings under anesthesia to remove plaque and tartar buildup, which can’t be removed through regular brushing alone. This helps prevent gum disease and other serious oral health issues.
- Tooth Extractions: In cases of severe decay or damage, tooth extraction may be necessary to relieve pain and prevent further infection.
- Dental X-rays: Sometimes, underlying issues such as root infections or bone damage aren’t visible during a regular exam. Dental X-rays allow us to get a clearer picture and provide more targeted treatment.
- Gum Treatments: We offer treatments, including deep cleaning and medication, to help manage and reduce inflammation in animals with periodontal disease.
- Oral Surgery: If needed, we perform oral surgeries to remove tumors, repair injuries, or address other serious dental conditions.
Supporting Animal Rescue Groups with Affordable Dental Care
We understand that many animal rescue groups work on tight budgets and have limited resources, but dental care is one area that should not be overlooked. Our clinic offers various affordable dental services tailored to the needs of rescue animals. We work closely with rescue groups to ensure that every animal receives the treatment they need without compromising care.
Improving Adoption Success Through Dental Health
Adopting an animal is an emotional and financial commitment, and potential adopters are often concerned about the future veterinary costs associated with their new pet. Ensuring that a rescued animal has received proper dental care can make a big difference in the adoption process. Animals with clean, healthy mouths are more comfortable, happy, and likely to engage positively with adopters.
By prioritizing dental health, rescue groups can increase the chances of finding permanent homes for the animals in their care.