Pulling Baby Teeth
by Tricia, Beau and Maisy
ORIGINAL MESSAGE:
Both Beau and Maisy seem to have retained some of their baby teeth as well as their adult. My vet says that they have to be pulled or suffer bite problems which could lead to eating problems, etc. I don't mind doing this on Maisy, since she still needs to be spayed, and I can do both at once when she's under anesthesia. I am concerned about Beau. He's already neutered so it would mean putting him under anesthesia again. So, here's the question: Do I have to have the teeth pulled? (I wish that my vet would have had me delay the neutering until we knew the condition of his teeth) Or, if I do, is there any other safe way? I am probably being over-protective, but, I know that there are risks to going under general anesthesia.....Thanks all! What would I do without you guys?

DISCUSSION:

When you have a vet. that understands toy dogs then you can feel assured that the anesthesia will be safe. Maltese must have pro. dentals sometimes every year to remain in good health through a long life. Don't worry that you neutered your boy too early - suppose your girl came in heat before he was done - madness would ensue. I love the boys BUT entire males in the same house with females can be a disaster unless you are set up to keep them apart. Go ahead and get that mouth straightened out - it is torture to the dog to deal with teeth that sometimes hit their gums when they bite. Turns them off chewing! The only time I would put it off would be in a very really tiny one, but after about 5 months they need to come out. Some lines change teeth at 4 months with no trouble and some hang on like yours.
Mary Lou