What is involved?
Dentistry involves giving your animal a slight sedation.  Bloodwork is required before giving sedation and the extent of the work-up will depend on the age of your pet, health status, and any other medical issues.  Once your pet is sedated, an ultrasonic tooth scaler is used to remove tarter from above and below the gum line.  Then the mouth is flushed to get rid of the pieces of dislodged tarter and remove bacteria from the mouth.

How do I set up a dentistry for my pet?
The first step is to bring your pet to see the doctor.  At this time, the oral health of your pet will be evaluated.  The doctor will discuss with which type of bloodwork will be needed in order to sedate your pet.  If a full bloodwork is required, then blood will be drawn and sent to the lab for analysis.  Tarter releases bacteria into the bloodstream and if there is a large amount of tarter already present, the doctor will prescribe antibiotics to help rid the infection and delay the buildup of tarter in the future.  We ask that you try to start the antibiotic 5 days before the dentistry and continue them for 5 days afterwards. 

On the morning of your pets scheduled dentistry, do not give any food in the morning.  Be sure to give water because if your pet is dehydrated, then subcutaneous fluids after sedation will be necessary to avoid damage to the kidneys.  There will be an extra fee for this service.  Drop off time in the morning is between 7am to 8am.  If you cannot make these times, please let us know and we will work something out.  When you drop off your pet, the admittance form will need to be filled out.  You may print the form off the website or fill it out when you arrive at the hospital.  Your pets nails will be trimmed while your pet is sedated free of charge.  When you pet is ready to be picked up, we will call and let you know.  Typical pick up times are between 3pm to 5pm. 

Is there anything I should do for my pet once I get home?

Your pet was sedated for the procedure but since it is just a slight sedation, your pet should not be groggy.  When you get home, offer food and water in small portions, sometimes the sedation will make your pet feel queasy.  We may advise you to offer soft foods or to soak dry food if your pet has had major extractions.  Your pet  may rest more then usual but will be back to normal by the next morning.  If there are any concerns, the doctor may be reached after hours by calling the hospital and then pressing 0 when the voice system picks up.

For more information on why dental health is important for your pet, click here.