ASK THE VET

OWNING a pet can often be a puzzling experience. ENQUIRER columnist Dr. Jeff LaCroix — a top veterinarian — answers readers’ questions about their furry friends.

MY DOG STINKS!

Our adopted four-year-old Greyhound is adorable, but smells bad! She makes the whole house stink! I think it’s her teeth. Any advice? ■

IT’S not necessary to be a doctor to diagnose the source of the odor you describe. About 99 percent of foul odors will be from four areas: mouth, ears, skin and anus. Use your eyes and nose to pinpoint the problem.

You can confirm it’s her mouth by opening it, retracting the lips and observing tartar, receding gums and/or tooth roots.

If this is the case, you should seek immediate care. The odor is evidence of an ongoing infection. Cleaning the teeth and performing extractions, if needed, will eliminate the odor — and help to prolong her life. Continued home care will lessen the need for repeat visits to treat the same problem.