Newbie with Questions

[NDP]

Hello, what a wonderful community you have here!

I read many helpful posts prior to adopting my tiny, 3-pound, 8-year-old Yorkie from an older family member who can no longer keep NooDoo.

I now have many questions to post... I understand there are specific forums to do so and so I'll get going to the Health forum. Top of my mind are vaccines, heartworm meds, and anesthesia-free dental cleaning.

Hope to get to know some of you on those forums!

[Lovetodream88]

Welcome! What are you specific questions? Heart worm meds are a must all year around here in Maryland, I use heart guard and I love it and have never had issues. Do not use Trifexis. Does she have current vaccines now or a vaccine history? Rabies is required by law and distemper and parvo is pretty important. If you live where ticks are an issues I recommend the Lyme vaccine. I would never do an anesthesia free dental cleaning because they are not safe. They can not clean under then gum line if they are awake, the can not polish and usually don't even try to polish the teeth so the tiny scratches they make with the scraper will grow bacteria, also if any teeth need to be pulled they can't do them unless they are under anesthesia. Anesthesia is VERY safe as long as they do pre surgery blood work.

[yorkiemini]

Welcome to YT! Glad your joined us. This site is a wealth of great information and encouragement.

First sounds like you need a really good vet who will guide your through the immunization process.

Personally my opinion of the anithesia free dental is not possitive based on my research. My pup has,unfortunately,had to have extensive dental work. Not necessarily due to neglect, but to the breeed. I have found the anesthesia is most generally safe and provides a thorough and comprehensive treatment for the dental issues that may be diagnoses. I am sure there will be those on YT who will/can present an opposing opinion on the topic.

After the my dog reached 7 years old I became a minimalist when it came to immunizations. I tend to follow the Dr Ron Schultz thinking in this area. However the rabies vaccine is required in most states.

Good luck, and glad you found YT great group here that is very generous with their caring and concern!