The biopsy came back as an Ossifying Epulis. Epulides are tumor like masses on an animal’s gums. They are the 4^th most common oral tumor in dogs and arise from the periodontal ligament of the tooth. There are 3 different forms of Epulides (Acanthomatous, Ossifying and Fibromatous), none of them are true cancer, however they can destroy the jaw bone and teeth they are associated with like true cancer can.

Symptoms may include bad breath, trouble eating, weight loss, excessive salivation, and blood from the mouth. Sometimes there are no symptoms – that is why it is important to look in your pet’s mouth daily.

He was referred to our hospital to have a partial mandibulectomy. We removed a small part of his mandible (lower jaw) with a technique called Mandibular Rim Excision. We sent out the portion of the jaw that was removed to make sure that the entire tumor was removed so that it will not return. He went home with pain medication, antibiotics, and will eat soft food to prevent infection and pain. We will recheck Frankie in 2 weeks and he should be completely healed at that time.

Thursday afternoons 2:00-5:00pm – Click Here for More Information

There are so many different features to each insurance company’s plans, that it is almost impossible to compare “apples” to “apples” in order for you to make an informed decision.  Some won’t cover certain breeds; some will only cover dogs or only cats; some will only cover puppies and kittens; and others will only cover a pet under age 7. It is a huge challenge for anyone trying to find a good plan for his/her pet(s) AND also be able to understand what is included!

In an attempt to rescue our clients from this maze of information, after extensive research

and consideration, The Carolinas Animal Hospital and Dental Clinic are pleased to announce Trupanion as the insurance of choice. The decision is based on my things, including the expeditious manner in which Trupanion reimburses policyholders based on actual veterinary cost.  The Trupanion Policy Overview states “Trupanion covers 90 percent of the actual costs of veterinary care should a pet become sick or injured.  This includes diagnostic testing, surgeries, medication, supplements, therapeutic food, orthotic devices, prosthetic devices, and carts.” The coverage includes not only your regular veterinarian, but also emergency veterinary clinics and veterinary specialists. Trupanion provides free online and phone customer support 24/7 and we feel this is very important for our clients.  If you have an insurance question, you need help now-not tomorrow after 9 am!

As a Carolinas Animal Hospital and Dental Clinic client, you are eligible for a 30 day Trial of Trupanion at no obligation. The special 30 day Trial Registration Forms are available only at the hospital and require a physical exam.  Clients are strongly encouraged to contact Trupanion directly as soon as the 30 day Trial is initiated, in order to learn as much information as possible by speaking with a Trupanion Customer Service Representative., or visit them online at Trupanion.com

To obtain your no cost Trupanion 30 day Trial Registration Form, contact us for an exam appointment at  704.588.9788.

She held this seminar for veterinarians at the Pawleys Veterinary Hospital Tuesday, Oct. 25.  ”Doing the procedure with the animal under general anesthetic allows the gum line and inside the mouth to be cleaned and examined effectively,” she said.

She regularly speaks to veterinarians and animal affiliated groups in the Carolinas.  She also presents scientific papers, conducts teaching laboratories and provides this type of dental education for veterinary staff.  Hosting the seminar were Dr. Edward Verville DVM, Dr. Stacy Whetstone DVM and Dr. Stephanie Welch DVM, along with Hospital Manager Lisa Havel.

Dr. Verville said Dr. Queck demonstrated better techniques for routine dental treatment.  “She also educated our veterinarians on the latest effective procedures, including gingival flaps and advanced periodontal techniques to treat gum disease, ” Dr. Verville said. “In gingival flap surgery, gums are separated from the teeth and folded back temporarily to reach the root of the tooth and the bone.” Dr. Whetstone said preventive dentistry and oral care are just as important in our companion animals as in people. ”Most people see their dentist routinely and their pets should too,” Dr Whetstone said. “Dental disease can cause chronic pain and discomfort, lethargy and decreased appetite.” She said bad breath indicates the build up of harmful bacteria that can spread to other parts of the body and cause disease.  “Eighty-five per cent of pets over the age of three have some type of dental pathology,” she said.  “Detecting this pathology can be tricky and is best evaluated while under anesthesia for routine cleanings.” Dr. Whetstone said she believes oral care begins at home, followed by regular checkups and cleanings.  “Most dental disease can be prevented with good maintenance care,” she said.

“At Pawleys Veterinary Hospital, our technicians provide free dental exams and recommendations for home care.  Our veterinarians and technicians work together as a team to perform dental cleanings, treat damaged teeth, perform full oral exams, and advise on home care techniques.” “There are many options for home care including diets, chews, rinses, pastes, water additives, and daily teeth brushing.  Experience and advanced training, such as this seminar led by Dr. Queck, enables professionals to find the best option and evaluate each pet personally.”

Dr. Queck has operated the Carolinas Animal Hospital and Dental Clinic since 1993.  A graduate of Iowa State University, she has performed advanced dental procedures on pets since 1986. She became a Fellow of the Academy of Veterinary Dentistry in 1993.  There are less than 100 members of this academy worldwide.