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Originally Posted by Ellie May  I think it's a matter of the general public knowing absolutely nothing about veterinary medicine. My family and friends come up with stuff like that too (avoid anesthesia with small dogs at all costs, they will fall out anyway - don't worry about it, etc.). I've come to realize that I need to ignore them about animal care and do what my vet wants me to do. 
Some will need cleanings yearly and some won't. If the bacteria does build up from lack of dentals, there is a risk of organs not functioning properly. If your pup needs a yearly dental, then that's what they should have.
Doing procedures together or separately will vary by vet and be based on what is being done, the length of time taken to do each thing, and the possibility of cross contamination. For instance, if a dog is very sick from pyometra and is being spayed, that is it for the day. If it's a routine spay, some vets will also do a dental. There are some that say teeth work with abdominal surgery is too risky because of cross contamination and others think that is ridiculous. It's really about trusting your vet. That said, for my dogs, we combine procedures when possible. The immediate need (as long as it isn't too serious and has to be done separately to get the dog out of anesthesia quicker) is taken care of first and then the teeth. If there are signs of distress, the dental isn't done. My vet is very comfortable doing this and it's what I'm comfortable with for my dogs. Being hospitalized can be very traumatizing for some dogs and coming out of anesthesia (or even going under if the dog has to be masked or tanked) isn't too pleasant. Also, the injectibles to tranquilize and knock down (while generally considered safe) are something I prefer to avoid back to back if possible. I think it's a matter of to each their own |
What an informative post, and thank you so much for taking the time to write it.
I was wondering about the cross contamination situation, and this truly makes sense to me.
I am thinking about going ahead with the cleaning, and then start being more diligent about brushing her teeth at least three times a week. I think of it as a bonding experience. LOL Sadie does not feel that way though.
This way, maybe I could delay the cleaning and do it every two years instead of one. The age thing bothers me too. She is going on ten, so I will tackle that later.
Thanks for the great info.