So, about a week ago, Barkley had his checkup at the vet. Everything looked great (okay, so he needs to lose a couple of pounds...who doesn't?), but there was a little problem with one of his molars. The vet showed me his back tooth, and explained that it was fractured, and had begun to decay. It had to come out.
Today was the day. I was dreading taking him to the vet, so Todd volunteered. I knew I'd be a mess. I realize it's only a tooth, but my puggie was being put under, and he didn't even know it yet.
I took Augie to work with me--to keep me company, and to keep him distracted--and thought about Barkley all day long.
Todd picked him up this evening. It turns out he had to have FOUR teeth extracted. Four! I've only had one cavity in my whole life! How did his teeth get so bad?!
He lost the icky molar, a side tooth, and two of his bottom teeth in front. I'm having a really hard time with the fact that my baby's smile is different. The toothy grin that makes me laugh is now just a snaggletooth. I know, it's just a couple of teeth. What's important is that he's healthy, and that the decayed teeth didn't get infected. And in my typical obsessive-compulsive way, we'll now be brushing his teeth every night.
So Mr. Barkley is happy to be home--a little groggy, but resting comfortably. And I'm going online to research dog dental care right now.
Poor little guy! The important thing is that he's healthier now. The appearances of humans change as they get older, and this is kinda similar, right? :)
He just needs extra hugs and kisses to get better quickly, which I'm sure won't be a problem!
Posted by: Sarah | July 18, 2007 at 09:57 AM
Yikes! Holly had 4 teeth removed when we first adopted her. I still have them in a little container..
Posted by: alfredsmom | July 18, 2007 at 11:54 AM