I have an older rescue dog that I adopted a few years ago. He’s probably around 17 now, according to what the shelter told me. About two years ago, he had some expensive dental work done, but today his canine tooth just fell out from the root. It’s not bleeding, and he seems to be acting fine.
I called the vet to ask if he’d need antibiotics, but they want me to bring him in for an exam, which would cost about $130. Since I have 9 rescue animals, these vet visits are really adding up. I was hoping to get some advice on here. Has this ever happened to anyone else’s pet? Did they need antibiotics, or were they okay?
I totally understand your frustration! Vet bills can really pile up. I have a senior dog too, and when she lost a tooth, I was panicked. But just like your dog, she didn’t show any signs of pain, and the vet told me that unless there was swelling, redness, or a bad odor, I didn’t need to worry. I kept an eye on her, and she was fine. Every case is different, though, so it’s good that you’re asking around.
I’ve had a few dogs that needed major dental work, including one that had both upper canines removed. I highly recommend you take your dog to the vet. Canine teeth are long and go deep into a dog’s jaw or nasal cavity, so if the tooth ‘fell out,’ it’s likely that part of the root may still be in there, which can lead to infection.
Dogs are good at hiding pain, so just because he’s not crying doesn’t mean he isn’t uncomfortable. This could be serious, and it’s better to get it checked out.
I get that vet care is expensive—I’ve spent thousands on my dogs—but this is part of what comes with having an older dog. If you’re not able to care for them properly, it might be time to consider other options. But please, for now, take him to the vet.
My cat lost one of her top fangs, and I didn’t even notice at first. There was no swelling or infection, so I just monitored her, and she was totally fine. I’d say just watch for any signs of infection or discomfort.
If you have so many animals that you’re struggling with vet bills, it might be time to reconsider rescuing more. I know you love your pets, but their health is important, and vet care is a big part of that.
As for your dog, I’d definitely take him to the vet to make sure everything is okay. Losing a canine tooth can be a big deal since the roots are deep. If you don’t, just monitor him closely for any signs of infection, like swelling or bad breath.
@Kiernan
I totally get that. I can afford the vet if necessary; I was just hoping this might be something that’s normal for an older dog and maybe I could skip the trip. Thanks for your input!
Sloane said: @Kiernan
I totally get that. I can afford the vet if necessary; I was just hoping this might be something that’s normal for an older dog and maybe I could skip the trip. Thanks for your input!
That makes sense! I hope everything goes well at the vet. Older dogs can live longer these days with the right care, so I’m sure he’ll be fine.
I’d definitely take him to the vet if his tooth just fell out. It could be a sign of severe dental or gum disease. Just because there’s no bleeding doesn’t mean it’s not serious.
Also, maybe consider limiting the number of animals you rescue if vet care is becoming too much. It’s important to be able to properly care for the ones you already have.
Sloane said: @Givenchy
Wow, calm down. I never said I couldn’t afford it. I’m just asking if this is normal for an old dog. No need to jump to conclusions.
I’m sorry if I came off harsh. I’ve just seen too many people take on more pets than they can handle, and I’m a big advocate for making sure all pets get proper care.
