An independent vet close to Leichhardt

From Leichhardt, our hospital at 10 Ramsay Road, Five Dock is about a 10 to 15 minute drive via Marion Street and Ramsay Road. Many of our Leichhardt clients walk their dogs at the off leash area at Hawthorne Canal Reserve on Canal Road, or along the Bay Run near Leichhardt Park, where dogs need to stay on a lead.

As an independent, family owned hospital, we have been looking after Inner West pets for over 50 years, and dental care is one of the areas where we see the biggest difference in our patients' quality of life.

How common is dental disease in dogs and cats?

Very common. Most dogs and cats have some signs of dental disease by the time they are 3 years old. Small breed dogs such as cavoodles, Maltese, chihuahuas and toy poodles are especially prone, because their teeth are crowded into a small mouth. Pets are very good at hiding tooth pain, and most will keep eating even when their mouth is sore.

What are the signs of dental problems in pets?

• Bad breath
• Brown or yellow build up on the teeth
• Red or bleeding gums
• Dropping food, or chewing on one side of the mouth
• Pawing at their face
• Drooling
• A swelling under the eye, which can be a sign of a tooth root abscess

Many owners tell us their pet is "a new animal" after a dental procedure, because they had got used to living with a sore mouth.

What happens during a dental procedure at Five Dock Vet?

Your pet comes in on the morning of their procedure, and we strongly recommend a pre-anaesthetic blood test on our in house machines. Under anaesthetic, our vet examines every tooth and probes around the gums, and we take dental x-rays, because a lot of dental disease is hidden below the gumline. The teeth are then scaled and polished. If any teeth are badly damaged or have lost too much bone around them, the vet will recommend removing them so your pet is no longer in pain. Throughout the procedure your pet has IV fluids and is monitored closely, and most pets go home the same day.

How can I look after my pet's teeth at home?

Daily tooth brushing with a pet toothpaste is the gold standard, and most dogs and many cats can learn to accept it if you start slowly with lots of praise. Dental diets and some dental chews can also help. Please avoid giving cooked bones, antlers or very hard chews, as these can break teeth. Our vets and nurses are happy to show you how to brush your pet's teeth at your next visit.