The Importance of a Dog Food Ingredient Panel

 

As so many new dog food manufacturers pop up, which is evidenced in my Facebook newsfeed, I think pet parents are beginning to wake up to the importance of what ingredients are in these foods.  That’s a significant revelation, one I certainly welcome. With over 76 million dogs in homes across the United States, the “it’s just a dog” mentality has become “my dog is family.” No amount of time we share with our furry companions is ever enough here on earth.  There are no 100% guarantees, but being mindful of what we feed our dogs can be a form of insurance to give them better lives for the time they are with us.

According to www.petfoodprocessing.net pet food and treat sales are expected to reach $53.2 billion (with a “B”) by the end of 2023! Statista.com estimates revenue in the pet food market to be $58.42 billion (yes, again….with a “B”!) in 2024! Thedogstop.com breaks down monthly costs at an average of $50/month to a higher quality dog food ranging from $150-300/month.  Average out to $225, which would be about $2,700 a year! That’s a chunk of change! Of course, these figures would vary with number of dogs and breed size.

With this level of moolah up for grabs, it begs answers to many questions…at least for me! Dry dog food (kibble) considered “high end” may not be all it’s cracked up to be! The pricey price you’re led to believe is “better” food may not be all it seems once you look at the ingredients and figure up the guaranteed analysis. There is more to this than meets the unexperienced eye. Caveat emptor! I completely understand the complexity of the issue.  It’s overwhelming! There are times it boggles my mind, and I’ve spent countless hours studying it!

Perusing an ingredient panel on a dog food package can seem “impressive” at first glance with that long list of stuff! The “more” is better mind-set doesn’t hold true, however.  Exactly what are those ingredients? Why are they in there? Do they need to be in there? Is that healthy for my dog? Inquiring minds like mine want to know! Surely all those vitamins and minerals are good, right? First, you must understand the cooking process.  Those raw ingredients are exposed to about 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about an hour.  That doesn’t really seem bad…but important enzymes are destroyed at temperatures over 117 degrees Fahrenheit.   So any “good” originally in the food is literally cooked out of it.  What you see listed are added back in after this process.  I call these “second hand vitamins/minerals”. It’s not a beneficial way for your dog to get these nutrients.  But that is a whole other blog, folks…back to the task at hand!

With all this now said, one must bear in mind, profit is the bottom line.  Not every dog food manufacturer is concerned about the health of your dog (especially those outside of the USA), rather how much financial gain can be made is the driving force.  Corners are cut, fillers are added, and the cheapest ingredients are used, and pockets are lined at the expense of your dog’s health and well-being! I cannot say it enough, KNOW about the supplier for the foods you feed to your dog! Headlines are filled with articles regarding dogs getting sick (and some dying) from dog foods and treats (especially those made in China). Emergency vet visits can put a significant financial strain on the budget.  Learning this is a process…one that can eat up a lot of time.  Research…find RELIABLE sources.  Ask questions! (That’s how I end up down all these rabbit holes!) Read reviews and articles (unbiased ones).  It’s your money and your dog, so it will be time well spent.

Okay, I hear most of your saying, “Anita, I just don’t have time to do that!” I get it, believe me, don’t panic!  I’m here to help.  I don’t get paid for writing these blogs, it’s a labor of love.  It’s not a “hobby” however, it’s a serious pursuit that I’ve invested my own money (no financial assistance here), and hours beyond counting of my personal time.  I enjoy it, and it comes naturally.  You could say I’ve found my niche.

The purpose of this article isn’t to provide all the answers to dog food woes.  That’s beyond the scope and ability for one writing to accomplish.  It is simply to make you aware (if you haven’t reached that point), and to whet your appetite for what is to come here at “Talk To The Paw”.  Just because I didn’t publish blogs for a while doesn’t mean I quit learning.  It’s an ongoing pursuit.  I’ve been a dog mom for 28 plus years and have had this blog since the Spring of 2012.  It’s very personal for me.  I’ve learned a lot, but I’m far from knowing it all…and I never will, but I will push forward and keep learning for me, and to help you!

I always stress consulting with your veterinarian.  I am very blessed to have had the same vet for over a decade and a half, so we have a long history together.  He knows how I roll with canine nutrition, and he respects that.  His expertise is “western” style medicine, as is majority of veterinarians.  My hope is that you find (or have) one who you can develop a lifelong relationship with, that you trust to help you make the best decisions for your dog throughout his/her lifespan.

Always feel free to leave comments and ask questions.  I am currently taking a certification course in canine cancer, and I have many other responsibilities, so I will do my best to respond. My email address is: talktothepawinindy@aol.com.  Your dog’s health is important to me, and I strive to bring you the best and most accurate information in an easy and understandable way so you can make knowledgeable decisions regarding your dog’s health. Be an active participant in all aspects of your dog’s life, and you will reap the benefits. Thank you for following my blog.

The Honest Kitchen Dog Food for Canine Cancer Review

 

Overall Talk To The Paw Rating: 4-PAW

Website address: www.thehonestkitchen.com

 

This is the first dog food review I am writing to help pet parents make informed decisions regarding feeding “convenience” (commercial dog food) to their dog with cancer. My personal first choice would be to home cook, for obvious reasons, one being, it’s healthier.  I know that is not a do-able option for some, so that is why I will be reviewing several brands of dog foods on the market to assist with selecting the best available option for you. You can also consider a mix of home cooked and commercial foods.  There are many mix and match options to improve your dog’s diet.

The bottom line is, there are no 100% guarantees in life regarding anything! I cannot make a promise that feeding your dog the best diet there is will keep him/her cancer free. We live in a broken world, so we have consequences to deal with regarding that.  I cannot express enough, however, the importance of nutrition throughout your dog’s lifespan.  It is your first line of defense, even more so when battling a disease (any disease, not just cancer). My goal in these reviews is to make the information as simple and understandable as possible.  The amount of information available can be overwhelming.  I’m doing the hard stuff…pouring over ingredient panels and figuring the different nutrient percentages of protein, fat and carbohydrates from the guaranteed analysis listed on the package.  This is not a quick task, but I’m all about research because I have a curious mind, and believe me, I have a lot of questions that need answers, and I take this seriously!

There are many factors that enter in to making decisions regarding nutritional needs when your dog has cancer.  Age, weight, health and even dog breed plays an important role. Also, is your dog dealing with additional health concerns like liver or kidney dysfunction? As your dog ages, you are likely to encounter more than one thing going on, so that needs to be taken into consideration.  Always check with your veterinarian when adding supplements to your dog’s diet, as treatments like chemotherapy and prescription medications could have an adverse interaction.

The guidelines I’m using in rating nutrient percentages are as follows: protein – 30 to 40% of dry matter (DM), if liver and kidneys are functioning normally. (Note: Don’t worry about what DM is…I’m doing that figuring for you!) Fats – 25 to 40%, and carbohydrates no more than 25%. Manufacturers are not required to include carbohydrate content in their guaranteed analysis, but it is an important factor when feeding. Again, I’ve done the figuring for you, so don’t worry! Depending on the type of cancer, certain foods may not be recommended.  Example, for mammary cancer, red meat should be avoided.  Chicken, especially is a safe choice…so that’s a good ‘go to’.

So, with all that said, let’s get into this.  The overall “Talk To The Paw” rating is my personal opinion rating. (nothing scientific!)  Each specific dog food I review will get an individual paw rating from 1-PAW to 4-PAW (again, my personal opinion) for feeding to a dog with cancer. One paw being the lowest, and four paws being the best rating.  In reviewing ingredient panels, I have listed some (not all) of the ingredients I consider a “plus” in the food, and those will be marked with a “+”.

Let’s get started with The Honest Kitchen (THK) review. Off the top, the food is made here in the United States, and it is human grade pet food.  What does that mean? You, as a human could eat it…if you had to! (wink, wink!) What product types does THK offer? Cluster dry food (kibble), dehydrated food (just add water), wet food, treats, toppers, supplements and broths. (Side note: do not feed your dog broth you buy from the grocery store, these usually have onion flavoring in them…a no-no for our canine companions) Prices listed are from the company website. Listed below is just a ‘sampling’ of what they offer.

 

Grain Free Chicken Clusters (dry) $7.99 for a 1 pound bag

“+” salmon oil, turmeric, rosemary extract

The protein (30%) falls within range, fat is a little low (16%), but that’s ok, you can add some healthy fats at home. Carbohydrate is high at 42%.  That’s not uncommon in a dry food.

Talk To The Paw Canine Cancer Rating: 2-PAW

 

Dehydrated Whole Grain Beef $14.99/1.5oz. x 10

“+” parsley, cranberries, spinach

The protein is on the low side (25%), and the fat is on the low side (10%), but that’s ok, you can do some add-ins to boost that.  Carbohydrates is high (57%).

Talk To The Paw Canine Cancer Rating: 2-PAW

 

Slow Cooked Chicken One Pot Stew (wet food) $25.74/10.5 oz x 6

“+” chicken bone broth, sweet potatoes, spinach, salmon oil, dried kelp, cinnamon

Protein is high (53%), but that’s ok…occasional feeding in higher protein foods can make up for a lack of protein somewhere else. (don’t stress over it!) Fat is low (11%) and carbohydrates are within range at 6%.

Talk To The Paw Canine Cancer Rating: 3-PAW

 

Blueberry & Vanilla Goat’s Milk N’ Cookies $10.99/8 oz.

“+” honey, organic coconut oil

Protein 9%, Fat 1%, Carbohydrates 37%

In moderation, these are a healthy treat.  This, and some of their other products (if you read the ingredient panel) contain bacillus coagulans, which is a naturally occurring probiotic which helps support a healthy digestive tract! That’s a plus! Yay!

Talk To The Paw Canine Cancer Rating: 4-PAW

 

Functional Pour Overs: Skin & Coat – Salmon Stew $39.48/5.5 oz. x 12

“+” fish bone broth, butternut squash, salmon oil, flaxseed oil

These are great “toppers” that you pour some over the top of the food.  Not intended to be a “meal”.  I did not see a guaranteed analysis available for this, but I use these and LOVE them!

Talk To The Paw Canine Cancer Rating: 4-PAW

 

Instant Beef Bone Broth with Turmeric $9.99 1.48 oz.

Turkey $12.99 3.6 oz.

I love adding bone broth to my dog’s food! If you just HAVE to stick with dry dog food (kibble), pouring some of the doggie bone broth can be a real boost!

Talk To The Paw Canine Cancer Rating:4-PAW

 

Goat’s Milk with Probiotics $12.99/2.12 oz

“+”  bromelain (this is a great enzyme derived from pineapples that can improve digestion, and also contains chemicals that seem to interfere with tumor cells…a definite plus!)

Talk To The Paw Canine Cancer Rating: 4-PAW 

 

Perfect Form Herbal Digestive Supplement $12.99 3.2 oz

I do not have a Talk To The Paw Canine Cancer rating for this….sorry.  I just wanted to include it, so you know it is available on their website.

 

So, in wrapping this up, I’d also like to say, The Honest Kitchen is big on ‘NO’…

NO rendered meals

NO artificial flavors/preservatives

NO GMO ingredients

NO feed grade ingredients

NO feed grade by-products

NO fillers (corn, wheat or soy)

 

I urge you to check their website for further information and to view their full line of foods available. You can also access a locator map to see where you can purchase it at a store in your area. They have a 90-day money back guarantee and a customer support team you can reach out to for assistance.

The Canine Cancer Epidemic

It's been a long time since I posted a blog, but I have not stopped studying and researching.  My most recent interest is in canine cancer.  I am currently taking a certification course in canine cancer in the hope of helping pet parents who are facing a cancer diagnosis with their dog.  

I recently had a "forever foster" from a local rescue.  Ethel (a miniature poodle mix), came into the rescue un-spayed and with mammary tumors.  Due to her health situation, a spay and removal of the tumors was not a doable solution. This began my journey (and many rabbit holes) into studying and researching this epidemic disease.

I find it sad that most veterinarians and pet parents do not realize the prevalence of cancer in dogs.  When I read that 65% of dogs will develop cancer in their life, I thought to myself "that's too many!" I knew I had to learn everything I could to help.  I've long said that nutrition is your first line of defense...and that is even more so for a dog with cancer.

I will be doing in depth research on dry dog food (kibble) and wet dog food to determine which are best for dogs and for which kinds of cancer, as I'm sure each one is probably unique in how to design a nutritional plan. For example, red meat is not good for a dog with mammary tumors. I will zero in on the nutritional analysis of many brands of dog food and blog here regarding those, so you can make informed decisions about what to feed your dog.

Let me stress this...kibble is a "no-no" for a dog with cancer! It's my personal opinion, but I have also read it elsewhere in my research.  I know there are formulas out there that would lead you to believe otherwise, but even the best (and most expensive) are too high in carbohydrates. (many 50% plus)

I realize kibble and packaged wet foods are a convenience.  People don't have time to home cook for their dogs, or feed special diets.  The dog food industry has long brainwashed people into believing, I have a dog....this is dog food...and it will meet my dog's nutritional needs. The process in preparing dry food is one of over cooking and overprocessing at very high temperatures, thus destroying any original nutrients the ingredients may have had.  Vitamins and minerals listed on the ingredient list are added back in AFTER the cooking process, and are in my opinion, second best, if that. (not the way your dog should be getting supplementation)

This article is to serve as a springboard to what I will be blogging about in the coming new year.  The following 12 common canine cancers will be the ones I will really zero in on: lymphoma, mast cell tumors, mammary cancer, osteosarcoma, hemangiosarcoma, transitional cell carcinoma, oral cancers, malignant melanoma, nasal tumors, soft tissue sarcoma, brain tumors and gland tumors.

I realize this is an extensive list, maybe even somewhat overwhelming, but I take my studies and research seriously.  Considering 2017 statistic numbers of 89.7 million dogs in the United States, that 65% I mentioned earlier that will get cancer (and by the way, I recently read, 1 out of 3 by the age of 10, and 2 out of 3 after the age of 10 will develop cancer) gives me cause to believe it's an area I should focus on.  

I hope you will follow these blogs, share them with family, friends, co-workers...whoever may need this information, so that going forward perhaps we can find the proper means to deal with a disease that truly needs a cure...one that I believe will come through education, nutrition and herbal avenues.

Apple Cranberry Delight

 

Welcome to another Chaplin Doggie Diner original! This yummy dessert is not only for your canine friend, but for humans as well! A great treat for the fall and winter season.  Cranberries are great support for the urinary tract, and apples add fiber.  Raw honey helps to build the immune system, so it’s a win/win all the way around!

 

 

1 organic medium sized apple (I used Gala)

½ cup organic cranberries

3 Tablespoons raw honey

1/8 teaspoon organic cinnamon

1/8 cup filtered water

 

Wash, peel, core and grate the apple. Set aside.

Cut cranberries in half.  In a small skillet, cook (low to medium heat) in 1/8 cup filtered water until soft, then smash with a fork (no need to drain).

Add grated apple, honey and cinnamon. 

Cook on low heat for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Allow to cool.  Serve warm or cold.

Finished product will have an applesauce consistency.

Nurturing Your Dog Throughout The Years

 

I’ve been a pet parent for 25-plus years.  In that time I have fostered over a dozen dogs, and at one time had twelve of my own in my care.  I’ve learned a tremendous amount since those early days when it was all new to me.  It’s inevitable that during the span of our dog’s lives, there will be times they will not feel well…maybe just having an off day (like people do), or succumb to a number of maladies that can affect their quality and length of life. Realize that some are avoidable with attentive care, and others happen regardless.

There are some basics.  Some may seem just ‘common sense’, and others bear repeating.  Nothing wrong with simple reminders, many that can make an overall difference over time.  It is unfortunate our ‘best friend’ has a short lifespan.  Small dogs, depending on breed can live as long as 20 years.  Larger dogs, maybe 15.  Those are guidelines, as each dog is unique, and there are many factors that enter in, other than type and size of dog.  Nutrition, environment, vetting, exercise and affection all play an important role.

I believe one of the best things you can do as a dog mom/dad is to educate yourself, and be mindful of your dog’s behavior.  Learn what ‘normal’ looks like, so when something goes awry, you will realize something is off. This will be different with each dog.  It might be subtle, and it may be very obvious. I’ve experienced both and many in between indicators.  There are various issues you can deal with at home, if you are comfortable and knowledgeable in regards to the matter. I have learned so much in two and a half decades. I am blessed that I have a long-time vet who knows me and my dogs, and I can place a call and he will call me back…has saved many a trip to the vet.  However, don’t hesitate to take your dog if there is an urgent need.

With all of this said, let’s review some quick ‘Basics 101’ regarding doing all you can to keep on top of your dog’s health and well-being.  Always provide clean water for your dog.  I give mine filtered water (from a PUR filter), and they drink from stainless steel bowls, which I believe to be best. Clean the bowls daily.  Be mindful of food and treats.  Many times ‘people treats’ can have an ill effect on a dog’s digestive tract.  I have found over the years as my dog’s age, they become intolerant of certain foods, specifically red meat (probably because it’s rich).  A simple diet may be necessary, such as chicken or grain free products.

Dental health is very important, as it has a direct link to heart health.  Tartar build-up is bad for a dog, just like it is for people.  I don’t over-vaccinate.  This is a personal choice, one I came to after probably a decade of yearly vaccinations.  I have done much research regarding this, and I am big on natural/herbal care. Most shots are good for a very long period (definitely more than a year), if not a lifetime. You can have a titer test done from your vet to determine immunity.  Heartworm is a concern, and I have used the ‘western’ version of protection, but also use an herbal product with one of my dogs.

Aging dogs also have joint issues and many develop cataracts.  I have found it is not uncommon for dogs to develop a form of dementia.  There are many very good supplements for joint issues that contain chondroitin, Glucosamine and MSM.  I have used them with success for several of my dogs. I have dealt with kidney disease, congestive heart failure, collapsing trachea, anal gland issues, corneal ulcers, vestibular disease, and numerous other ailments. There are dogs that develop cancer, diabetes and many other issues that people have.

Exercise is a necessary component to a healthy dog.  Take into consideration the age and health of the dog to determine what type of exercise, intensity and length is appropriate.  For a smaller dog, a romp in a fenced yard may be all that is needed. For a young dog, a long walk or even a run would be best to release all that pent-up energy. Stress and anxiety can wreak havoc on your dog as well. Be mindful of loud noises, from music, to fireworks, to storms, small children, and even people talking loudly. If you find this to be problematic, talk to your veterinarian to find a workable option.  I’m an ‘older’ dog mom, so my dogs are blessed to have a quiet, smoke-free, child-free home.

Last, but certainly not least…LOVE! Every person wants to be loved by someone.  Every dog wants that too! A massage, talking sweet, cuddling.  Don’t ignore your dog.  As I mentioned earlier, they aren’t around a long time. My Maltese died when she was almost 18.  I had her from 8 weeks and 3 days old. The years went so fast! Do things together…they are a furry ‘child’, and require nurturing. Remember, you have your job, your friends, your entertainment…all they have is YOU! I just recently adopted a new rescue dog (after losing two this year), and I made the statement on social media there are three things I want for her (and I’ve always provided this for all my dogs)…I want her to feel loved, to feel safe and to be spoiled! You can’t go wrong with that!

Indy Dog Fostering Network

My “mission” has always been about the well-being of dogs, especially in the area of nutrition. I have been a pet parent for 30+ years, 25+ as a small dog mom. I began fostering in May 2008, (mainly Chihuahuas) and from there my interest in these little dogs began to grow. In 2012, I started a senior dog rescue, “Small Paws Senior Canine Sanctuary”. Taegan and Tobey were the first…then came Otis (he was 19 years old!)…and eventually two others I had taken in, Little Scrap and Maebelle became residents as well.

With my extensive background in human nutrition, it wasn’t long before I determined I should expand that to canines. In April 2013, I obtained certification in “Advanced Canine Nutrition”. It has served me well, and has enabled me to gain insight into the nutrient needs that go well beyond a bag of dry kibble or canned dog food. I have turned around issues using proper diet and herbal supplements. There are so many ailments that can plague our pets, it’s overwhelming and it saddens me. Even with the best of care, the progression of age and disease, it’s not possible to continue moving forward sometimes and you have to let go. I’ve experienced that eight times now with my own just since 2013. It is disheartening. I wish they could live forever, but it’s not possible. We just have to do the best we can for them…enjoy them while they are here and honor their memory by rescuing another in need.

With the years passing quickly, and the realization of me turning 60 next year (2022), I have to consider what I want to do going forward, because my own aging can change my ability to care for a pet. The two I have now, Mya…she will be 19 this October (she’s been with me almost 13 years), and Little Scrap will be 17 in August (he’s been with me almost 11 years). Realistically, I could be pet-less by the end of the year…a thought that doesn’t set well because it’s hard for me to remember my life “B.C.” (before canines). I am currently fostering a large (to me) dog…a bully mix (55#’s)…she will be the last one I foster, as I have decided to go a new direction from rescue and fostering to assisting other fosters and connecting them to rescues, so more dogs can be saved. 

I just recently (April 15th) lost “Sanctuary” resident Taegan to doggie dementia (an issue I really need to blog about). I am working on a Facebook page that will allow me to connect fosters with rescues…”Indy Dog Fostering Network”. (See link in “Fostering, Rescue and Dog Resources” section) I am in Indianapolis, but plan to cover the whole state of Indiana. Although local shelters provide basic needs and safety from the elements, shelter life is stressful, especially to the small dogs. My goal thru my network, is a shorter shelter stay. Much can be learned from providing a home environment vs. being in a noisy shelter, which many times causes a dog to shut down. I learned so much valuable information from the ones I took in. It also made me a better person, because caring for a dog that isn’t yours truly brings a sense of satisfaction, knowing you’ve helped make their life better. If you have considered fostering a dog, or you foster dogs, please contact me if you’d like to help. I have connections with local (Indiana) rescues, and can get you connected to them, so you can do what is necessary to foster for them. If you know of someone, please have them contact me, through my FB page or my email: TalkToThePawInIndy@aol.com 

I know it will take a while to build this network, but eventually it will get there. Also consider, there are other areas you can assist besides fostering…sponsor a dog (many rescues have this available), be a transport person…get a dog where he/she needs to go. Donate…this is a big one! Rescues are typically all volunteer…and there’s no such thing as a “free” dog. This helps to pay expenses for the dogs…vetting, food, medication, beds, toys, treats. And certainly, when you see a dog posted needing a home, SHARE the post. It only takes a few seconds. You never know when doing that will find the dog a home. Everyone can play a role in helping. Please “like” my FB page, and share it with family and friends so a network can be built to help as many dogs as possible. My goal is to save them all and see them placed in a loving, “fur”-ever home! Please join me in this journey, won’t you?

A Canine Dental Alternative - Dexdomitor

Having a veterinarian you can trust speaks volumes regardless of whether you are getting routine vaccinations, a dental or major surgery; confidence in your vet matters. It is very important to be able to ask questions, and not be given rushed answers.  Granted, an emergency situation is different, but in preparing for the routine stuff, and even that which is unexpected, your questions and concerns need to be handled respectfully.

 

As a pet parent, there are the obvious responsibilities…and many times above and beyond attention is essential.  Don’t rely on your vet to do it all…do some homework yourself, as much as possible so going in you can prepare a list of questions and concerns.  Being previously educated on the issue allows you to make informed decisions regarding your dog’s health when discussing options with your vet. To me, I am always wanting more than one option…at least three is great!  If you are new to pet care, seek out recommendations from friends, family, or co-workers to guide you in the right direction to a reliable veterinarian, hopefully one you can go to for the life of your pet, which could be 10-15 years, or possibly more. 

 

One of the most important procedures (other than vaccinations), is that of getting your dog’s teeth cleaned (aka: a dental).  This can be an apprehensive time, as majority of this work is performed under a ‘general’ anesthesia, and most of us realize there is always risk involved when going under.  That can cause anxiety to us.  Years ago I had a large amount of dental work to be done, and I asked my dentist if he could just put me under and do it all, and he responded, ‘No! I don’t put anyone under anesthesia for dental work, that is very dangerous! No tooth is worth losing your life!’  He said between nitrous oxide and valium, he’d get me through it, and he did!

 

Any dog can need a good teeth cleaning during his or her lifetime.  Small breeds, especially Chihuahua’s are notorious for bad teeth, don’t know why really, they just are!  There are several things a pet owner can do to reduce the amount of tartar build up, like feeding quality raw meaty bones (RMB’s). (Note: never feed your dog cooked bones, they can splinter and be a choking hazard.  That said, always monitor your dog when providing chew treats, as choking on small pieces can be a possibility).

 

Were you aware gum disease has a connection to heart disease in canines? (Actually, in humans too!)  That makes dental care even more important, a not to be overlooked necessity in your dog’s health maintenance.  I have blogged before regarding the use of chlorophyll in your dog’s drinking water.  (See blog dated May 23, 2012)  If you feed your dog a soft diet, i.e., canned dog food or even home-cooked meals, he/she is more susceptible to plaque formation.  This builds up and becomes hard (tartar), then irritates the gums.  Left untreated, the gums pull away from the tooth, causing small pockets to open up between tooth and gum, enabling more bacteria to form.  And I’m sure many of us have encountered the dreaded ‘dog breath’! Ick! You can brush your dog’s teeth to help avoid this, but you would need to be consistent (like every day your dog eats, which can be challenging if you have multiple dogs).  There are some great natural recipes on the internet for canine toothpaste, or you can buy special toothpaste at your local pet store. (Note: never use toothpaste for humans on your dog’s teeth). 

 

So now that you’ve had a bit of an intro to canine dental health…let’s move on to more information about the procedure for getting Fido’s pearly whites…well…white again! As I previously mentioned above, this is typically performed under general anesthesia, a long-standing practice.  As with anything regarding surgeries (when teeth need to be removed), there are benefits and risks.  Just as when people go in for surgery, you sign a waiver that you nor your family will hold your doctor responsible if you die while under. It happens, more than you know.  You will have a similar agreement for your dog for his/her dental.  Statistics say 1 in 2,000 healthy dogs die under anesthesia each year.  Seems like a low number unless your dog is that ‘one’. Also, in considering that statistic, of the 89+ million dogs living in the U.S. what the total of that ‘1’ in 2,000 is….that’s a LOT of dogs dying under anesthesia!  How many other dogs however, that aren’t really healthy, unbeknown to owner and/or vet, face this procedure and are at greater risk of dying because of unrevealed health issues?  If your dog is over the age of 7, as this is a good mid-life number, you might want to consider a CBC (a complete blood count blood test) a couple weeks before the dental.  It could provide important information and give needed insight going forward.

 

I’ve had numerous dogs, between fostering and the multiple ones I have adopted and others I have taken into my senior rescue, I am well-versed on dental procedures.  Out of all the ones I’ve had done, only two went under general anesthesia, and I did it more as a convenience, because I was taking another dog in for a neuter/dental.  I absolutely did not like the way my dog was ‘foggy-minded’ and walked like she was drunk for several hours afterwards, and she was only about 8 years old.  My first experience with the light sedative procedure (dexdomitor) was with my 13-year old Maltese.  Wow, big difference in recovery…she was alert and eating that same evening, back to her normal self. Just no comparison to how much quicker and easier it was! And so it has been in each time after with all the other dogs.

 

So let me talk about this dexdomitor.  The vet I go to uses this and has for a long, long time.  He told me once he couldn’t even tell me when the last time was they lost a dog under it, because it is so safe.  Many times when I’ve had this procedure done for one of my pups, I have been invited to go back and watch, which I did.  Very interesting to see, and I learned a lot as my vet explained to me and showed me different things as he was doing it.

 

So, what is dexdomitor? It is a sedative with analgesic (pain relieving) properties.  It is administered intramuscular or intravenously.  It is used in minor dental procedures or as a pre-anesthetic to general anesthesia.  (If used in this way, it reduces the need of the general by as much as 30-60%!) Dexdomitor is not to be used in dogs with cardiovascular disease, respiratory disorders, liver or kidney diseases, conditions of shock, severe debilitation or stress due to extreme heat, cold or fatigue.  Basically, it is for use in ‘clinically healthy’ dogs.  However, I’m sure some of mine weren’t the picture of health going in, and they have all done just fine.  Frequent monitoring for heart function and body temperature during sedation are of utmost importance.

 

Sedation is reversed using atipamezole (brand name Antisedan).  Recovery in a warm (usually a thermal blanket), quiet, mostly dark environment are recommended for about a half hour to 45 minutes afterward for a return to a normal state of being.  As with a procedure of this type, fasting for about 12 hours is recommended beforehand (no food or water).  I have however had a dog I brought in that required an emergency dental, and had eaten shortly previous to this, and with the dexdomitor had zero issues (and this dog was 19 years old!) Does dexdomitor have side effects? Yes.  It is, after all ‘Western medicine’.  However, they are few and far between.  Occasional vomiting, and rarely brief states of excitement or apprehensiveness, potential hyper salivation, diarrhea, tremors.  I will say, I have never encountered this with any of mine using the dexdomitor. But it is always wise to monitor your dog for at least 24 hours after a dental to watch for any adverse signs.  Also, feed a light diet, like boiled chicken breast and rice.  Allow access to clean water.

 

This is certainly worth a discussion with your vet for your dog’s next cleaning.  I was unable to find a list on the Internet of veterinarians who use dexdomitor for dentals, so if yours does not, ask for a referral.  If your vet doesn’t know one, make some calls around.  You should always want what is best for your dog.  This is considered safe, efficient, reliable pet sedation that creates a calm, cooperative environment.  It simplifies and shortens procedures, reduces discomfort and pain and lowers risk to the patient (your dog!)  If you are aware ahead of time there might be infection, get an antibiotic a few days before from your vet. 

 

Here are some after helps to keep those pearly whites whiter between cleanings:

·         Chlorophyll in water dish (Sunny Green brand is exceptional!)

·         Raw Meaty Bones (RMB’s)

·         Raw diet (use reputable pet food provider like ‘My Pet Carnivore’ (www.mypetcarnivore.com)

·         Brushing teeth (if not daily, several times a week)

·         Oral dental sprays (PetzLife is one of the best!)

 

My hope in providing this information is to make many people aware there is something besides general anesthesia for a canine dental.  I know for me it gives me peace of mind going in, and that is a big plus! Keeping on top of your dog’s teeth can ensure many years of health and happiness, for them and for you!