Ask the vet Chew on this! Q
What should I give my puppy and my older dog to chew on? In stores, I’ve seen everything from rawhide bones to actual antlers. What material is best for their teeth?
A
In an effort to keep our dogs happy, owners give them anything from rawhides and rubber toys to antlers and Nyla bones. Many dogs love to chew on any, or all, of the above, but many of these products are not always good, or safe, for them. Dogs enjoy chewing different textures. For them, it’s a therapeutic activity that makes them happy. Dogs with access to chew toys will be more likely to stay away from other things not meant to be chew toys, such as shoes. Just as important, the right chew toy and/or rawhide will help maintain cleaner teeth. So the big question is…which are the safest materials for my dog to chew on? It comes down to “if it’s harder than a tooth, it can fracture a tooth.” Many dogs eat antlers and bones, but the fact is, these hard materials have the
potential of fracturing teeth. A few good options that most dogs enjoy chewing on are Kongs, certain types of rawhides and tartar control chews. The Kong is a hollow, rubber toy that is shaped like a beehive. Kongs are available in different sizes and colors. These toys are safe because they are made out of rubber. In addition, they are a good tool to use for those dogs that suffer from separation anxiety. When you place a treat inside the Kong or fill it with peanut butter, your dog becomes distracted. This gives you the opportunity to leave home without your pet becoming as stressed about your absence. Rawhides come in many different shapes and sizes. Not all raw hides are well tolerated by all dogs. Some dogs may develop gastric upset from eating certain raw hides. C.E.T. chew is a brand of rawhide made with enzymes that help clean their teeth. C.E.T. stands for Clean Every Tooth and is available through your veterinarian. Tartar control treats are another good option for dogs to chew on
woman's best friend
without fracturing their teeth. Milk Bone tartar control treats are tasty and are also very helpful in cleaning dogs’ teeth. These are available at major supermarkets. Keep in mind that every dog is different and some are very good at chewing hard materials without fracturing their teeth. A fractured tooth will result in an expense that could easily be avoided by using the appropriate chew toy/treat. If you suspect your dog has suffered a fractured tooth, be sure to take him/her to your veterinarian for an evaluation. ■
Dr. Beatriz Segarra is the owner and veterinarian at the Village Animal Hospital on Abbotts Bridge Road in Johns Creek. www. thevillage animalhospital.com
SKIN CARE SPECIALIST: Caroline Brown Proper skin care products combined with professional skin care treatments are the perfect ways to achieve great looking skin. I use only the most innovative skin care products, providing advanced treatments in a private and relaxing environment. Let me help you look your BEST! •16 years experience working as a licensed esthetician • Solo practitioner offering customized skin care services • All skin types! Specializing in anti-aging treatments Renew Skin Care Studio 1575 Old Alabama Rd, Ste 201, Studio 118, Roswell, GA 404-512-0543 • caroline_brown@bellsouth.net www.renewskincarestudio.net may2014 | northsidewoman.com | 29