Dental treatment help

i_want_one_of_those_mum

My mum was asked if she would like a family dog. It's a white fluffy thing freisha breed I think. She's 8-9 years old.

Anyway mum being responsible took her to the vet for a check up & a toe nail clipping.

Found her teeth are rotten. 4-5 teeth need to removed and all her teeth covered in plaque so they don't know the extent of the damage done.

The dog belonged to my uncle and was passed from pillar to post. New babies, travelling etc and it appears they didn't think of dental hygiene!

The vet has estimated £480.00 for X-rays, anathestic, blood work dental work. My mums is on a pension and can't afford this treatment.

Uncle (her brother) said he would pay but instead advised to give the dog back and they will re-home it. :mad:

To say that mum is dismayed is upsetting. I don't have £500 for the treatment but I have never seen mum so happy and her depression has all but gone since Molly came into her life.

But how is she going to get the treatment? Any suggestions would be great. Thanks.

Sally_A

Is the dog suffering or does she have problems eating?

Sorry, but some vets will try to pile on treatment that would be nice, but not necessarily needed, maybe a few bones or chew sticks will help with plaque removal.

I'd ask for a de-plaque first, which is a lot cheaper as does not involve anaesthetic. Given guidance, it is possible to clean your own dogs teeth. Just be aware that any brushing up near the canine teeth and gums makes them sneeze, and you will get an eyeful.

Or take to a second vet for an opinion.

terrylamps

Have you tried ringing the pdsa or rspca to see if they can help? I know they can help if you are on certain benefits but i don't know if pension credit is one of them, but may be worth ringing them to find out.

i_want_one_of_those_mum

Thank you both for your comments. PDAs can't help as dog is not in pain. Didn't think of the RSPCA will find out if we have a local branch.

We do have another local vet so will ask mum to take the dog their for a second opinion.

Molly is having a full doggie wash treatment and do teeth cleaning - so I will ask their opinion.

It's just a shame that dear uncle whose kids have done this haven't properly cared for her.

Will ask about just de-plaguing first to see if they will do it.

Thanks for your help.

gettingready

Do not know how far in Essex are you and how easy would it be for you to get to East London?

If you can get to Canning Town, definitely try Celia Hammond. The treatment will be fraction of the price quoted by your vet, they help people in this situation.

http://www.celiahammond.org/index.php?&MMN_position=1:1

Their Canning Town branch - contact them.

All the best