Jack was suffering with the worst dental disease we have ever seen
In spring this year, on a chilly day, we meet the Dog Warden who has picked up an elderly jack russell terrier. He’s in a poor state so is taken straight to the vet suite who note that he is underweight with little muscle mass, has overlong nails and sore skin from fleas, and although hungry he can only manage slurping up wet food.
A look in his mouth and it is astonishing – the worst dental disease our team have seen, his mouth is entirely infected.
We give him medication for his skin and mouth to make him feel better. We hope an owner will come forward so we can help them work something out, but nobody claims him so we clear a space for a dental operation for the minute he is signed over to us.
In just seven days, his skin is looking better and it’s time for his emergency dental with our Head Vet, Michaela. As she tries to remove the tartar, many of his teeth fall out of their sockets, it seems only held in by the infected matter. And then the real shock – part of his lower jaw is detached, a fragment in her hands. Michaela must adjust her operation plan fast - if we had radiography on site we would have scanned him, but Michaela’s years of expertise allows her to check for more fragments by hand and then suture the wounds.
As Jack recovers, the change in his quality of life is palpable. He moves from eating soft puppy food to taking treats in 10 days… although learning to pick up a tennis ball with just 2 teeth takes a little longer to figure out!
His gums are a healthy pink, and he shows no signs of favouring one side or any pain when eating. We gradually reduce his pain medication and keep checking he is doing OK.
Over the next couple of weeks, he is feeling better and stronger, has put on 1kg in weight, and completes his behaviour assessments. He has regained a zing for life that was just a glimmer when he came in, and it isn’t long before he is matched to a loving new home and adopted.
Looking after your pet’s teeth is so important! Read our advice on www.bathcatsanddogshome.org.uk/pet-care-advice/taking-care-of-their-teeth