NUPEPA KAUKA HOLOHOLONA

“VETERINARY NEWSPAPER”

2010 WINTER EDITION

WELCOME, to a new year with Haiku Veterinary Clinic. As with all beginnings, we are committed to providing you with comprehensive veterinary services your pets deserve and require. We thank you for giving us the opportunity to share your journey of responsible living with your pet and feel honored to have your trust in providing our services.

Among the numerous services we provide, our Staff members love to share their knowledge with you through our successful Pediatric Program. We are always rewarded in working with healthy and playful puppies and kittens. We also, believe in advocating for the mental and physical well being of your pet throughout their lives. Be assured that even in the twilight years, we join you in the journey with your long time companion. During those in between years, we are present to work with you through “Dis – eases”, and in alerting you of ways to optimize healthy choices.

In addition to a fabulous support Staff, Dr. Fanning and Dr. Dale have joined me with the same commitment to be part of your family in the “crazy” world of animal lovers. Mahalo, Dr. Elison

FEBRUARY IS NATIONAL DENTAL MONTH

THE NEED FOR PROFESSIONAL DENTAL CLEANING IN DOGS AND CATS

Typically, we can keep dog and cat dental care under control until they are about 4 years of age. The many options of using dental pastes, cleansing solutions, and edible chewies help to decrease plaque buildup, but often by age four, veterinary intervention is needed.

The progression of dental disease includes the buildup of plaque that leads to gingivitis or inflamed gums. Calculus accumulates to the point of tartar build up, all the while the gums start to recede from the teeth and the boney socket that holds the teeth in place starts to erode.

Although slow in developing, bad breath ensues, loose teeth are noticed, and pain is finally evident. Unfortunately, the major problem becomes that of bacteria making their way into the blood stream and affecting internal organs such as the heart, liver and kidneys.

Regular examinations can prevent these advance stages of dental disease and your veterinarian can advise you to the appropriate times to pursue professional dental cleaning.

A pre-anesthetic examination includes collecting blood as well as urine in some cases to assess any risks prior to the procedure. Due to age or other risk factors, additional diagnostics may also be necessary. Dental radiographs are recommended for some and especially those that may require surgical extraction of teeth. At the onset of the procedure each tooth is charted and noted with their health condition. All teeth are scaled and polished under general anesthesia. The final sealants are applied and antibiotics and pain medication may go home with the patient.

Progress examinations at least 10 days after the procedure assure that healing is on schedule and that continual home care is possible. THERE IS NOTHING LIKE A PEARLY WHITE SMILE!