AboutJana Connell RVT, CVT Expertise I can answer most questions about small animal and wildlife care as well as small animal nutrition. I can also answer questions about all phases of dental care for small animals. I cannot diagnose diseases nor will I try to. That is only for a licensed Veterinarian to do. I DO NOT do birds (unless it is wildlife or songbirds) or HAMSTERS/GERBILS/CHINS/GUINEA PIGS so please submit these questions to the appropriate sections. I also do not know much about reptiles, so post those to the reptile experts also. Thanks!
Experience I have over 35 years experience in the field of veterinary medicine. I specialized in small animals and did wildlife rehab for over 25 years, mostly raptors, squirrels and opossums. I am a nutritional consultant with 6 certificates from Hills Pet Foods, CNM and Purina.
Organizations Audubon,World Wildlife Federation, American Society of Veterinary Dental Technicians.
Education/Credentials Licensed with California and Oregon, RVT and CVT.
Certified Veterinary Dental Technician
Question I hsve a male shiz tzu (1 yr) and I was given a female shiz tzu about a month ago, she is a lovely dog and she has brought so much joy to the male, but since I've had her she has had really bad breath I've tried the chewy bones for breath and I've tried the dog food for breath and I've tried brushing her teeth but the bad breath wont go away, could there be another reason for this?
Answer She has periodontal disease from bad dental hygiene in the past. The only thing you can do is get her teeth cleaned professionally and then have the vet get you started on a home dental care plan which includes tooth brushing and other things.
Almost 95% of all dogs have some type of periodontal disease by the age of two from having no dental care.
You have to start it now, and make sure your male has it too. Chewy bones and that stuff do nothing for existing PD and can actually do more harm than good on irritated and raw gum tissue.
Get her to the vets and get her teeth cleaned then start fresh. You can even put her on a dental diet for life that helps an amazing amount.
Ask the vet about T/D when you pick her up from her dental.
Let me know how it goes.
