IF you’ve ever misplaced your retainer, you know the panic that comes with it. But here at Lemchen Salzer Orthodontics, we have a secret weapon — and she has four paws, a wagging tail, and the sweetest smile. Meet Myka, our Retainer Detection Dog!
A Pup with a Purpose
At first glance, Myka looks like any other happy black lab — she loves long walks in the city, wagging hello to strangers, and playing fetch until her pawrents, Dr. Andrew Lemchen and his wife Carly, finally call it a night. At home, she’s also the proud big sister to Liara, who adores her furry best friend, and her new baby brother Bodie, who’s already learning what it’s like to grow up with the sweetest “Ortho Lab” by his side.
But there’s one very special thing about Myka that sets her apart…
She’s training to become the very first retainer-finding dog in NYC (and maybe even the world)
Training Like a Pro
With the help of Maximum K9 Training, Myka has been working hard to perfect her skills. Her training is modeled after the same methods used to prepare bomb-detection dogs — except instead of sniffing out danger, she’s learning to sniff out lost retainers.
Pretty amazing, right?
Myka’s Services
With the help of expert trainers at Maximum K9, Myka has been practicing the same scent-detection methods used to train bomb-sniffing dogs — but instead of detecting danger, she’s learning to track down lost retainers.
Here’s what Myka brings to the table (or rather, the dental chair!):
✔️ Retainer Detection – Using her incredible nose to sniff out misplaced retainers.
✔️ Precision Scent Training – Focused training modeled after professional K9 work.
✔️ Kid-Friendly Motivation – Encouraging kids to take better care of their retainers.
✔️ Comfort & Support – Offering cuddles, calm, and reassurance during visits.
Why Patients Love Her
It’s not just her nose that makes Myka special — it’s her heart. Patients young and old can’t help but smile when she’s around.
She saves families stress (and the cost of replacing retainers).
She motivates kids to stay responsible with their orthodontic care.
She comforts nervous patients with her sweet and gentle nature.
She makes every visit more fun, turning appointments into something to look forward to.
