Pup born with extreme overbite gets a second chance

 

Ella arrived at the San Antonio Humane Society on Sept. 23 with a suspected broken jaw. However, upon evaluation, it was determined that Ella had severe mandibular brachygnathism, a condition where the bottom jaw is shorter than normal.

Although she was not showing it, the sweet 6-month-old Retriever was in pain. Because of her shortened lower jaw, her bite was off and her bottom canines were causing trauma to the roof of her mouth. If not corrected, her condition could worsen and result in bone loss, tooth loss and oronasal fistulas, which is an abnormal hole connecting the mouth and nose.

 

SAHS veterinarians determined that Ella required a specialized surgery to correct her painful condition. Thanks to the generosity of our donors, Ella was able to travel to see the nearest veterinary dental specialist, Dr. Tiffany Menke, at Austin Veterinary Emergency Services on Oct. 13 for her procedure.

A crown amputation removed the sharp tips of the bottom canine teeth, resulting in a shorter and blunter tooth that will not have contact with the roof of her mouth. The tooth then required a vital pulpotomy, which is a filling that allows the tooth to remain alive and healthy. Two back molars were also extracted to allow her remaining teeth to erupt and have space.

Ella’s procedure was successful, and she has been a perfect patient throughout this entire treatment.

“She rode so well in the car and was such a lovely houseguest following her surgery,” SAHS Associate Veterinarian Dr. Leslie Hopes said. “Her tail has not stopped wagging; she will make her future adopters very happy.”

Her recovery process will include a short course of antibiotics and pain medications, soft food for several weeks, and of course, plenty of cuddles. She will also require future checkups and yearly dental cleanings due to her shortened jaw.

“It's been a great experience to provide a specialized procedure for a young puppy that will change her life and remove a lot of pain from her daily activities. This definitely would not have been possible without the incredible support of our generous donors,” Dr. Hopes concluded.

Ella is now recovering back at shelter and is ready to find her FURever home! She is nearly 100 percent potty-trained, sleeps well through the night and absolutely loves other dogs.

If you are interested in making Ella a part of your family, submit an online adoption application at SAhumane.org/dogs today!