Poor
Dental Health is Dogging Pets, Too
Problems in your Pet's Mouth
Can
Lead to Serious Health Problems
Collinsville, OK
(Feb 1)- Thanks to plenty of lectures from dentists, we're all aware
of the need to brush and floss our teeth regularly. But did you know
that you also need to pay attention to your pet's teeth? February is
National Pet Dental Health Month and a good time to become aware of
the importance of proper care for your pet's pearly (or not-so-pearly)
whites.
Research shows that when bacteria in your pet's mouth accumulate on
his or her teeth, plaque and tartar form. Without proper oral care,
this build-up of plaque and tartar may lead to periodontal disease and
tooth loss. The bacteria associated with periodontal infections also
have the potential to spread to other organs such as the heart, liver
and kidneys.
In fact, studies show that 80 percent of dogs and 70 percent of cats
show signs of oral disease by the time they are three years old. Oral
disease is the most frequently diagnosed health problem for pets. Fortunately,
oral disease can be controlled and in some cases reversed.
"If your pet's mouth isn't healthy, then your pet isn't healthy,"
said Dr Bob McCraw, a veterinarian at Eastside Veterinary Hospital in
Collinsville, OK. "Your pet's mouth is a big line of defense in
protecting against disease, and appropriate home care is critical in
helping to prevent oral disease."
The American Veterinary Dental Society (AVDS) recommends a three-step
program to help pet owners keep their pets' mouths bacteria free and
healthier:
1. Take Your Pet to the Veterinarian For a Dental Exam. Your pet's veterinarian
is also your pet's dentist. As part of your pet's annual exam, he or
she will receive a health checkup that includes a thorough physical
exam and a dental check. If plaque and tartar build-up are a problem,
your pet's veterinarian will probably recommend a dental cleaning.
2. Start a Home Dental Care Routine. Your pet's veterinarian will also
suggest steps you can take at home to help keep your pet's teeth clean.
This could include regular brushing and special pet foods with dental
benefits.
3. Get Regular Veterinary Checkups. Follow-up is important because plaque
continues to build up on your pet's teeth every day. Some pets, such
as small dogs, tend to accumulate plaque and tartar more quickly. Tooth
brushing and regular dental cleanings are especially important for these
pets.
For more information about dental care for your pet, visit the 'Pets
Need Dental Health, Too' site at www.petdental.com.
Eastside Veterinary Hospital provides high quality medical and surgical
veterinary care to pets in the Collinsville, Owasso and surrounding
areas. Services include comprehensive medical, dental and surgical health
care, as well as nutritional, geriatric and flea control consultations.
During the month of February all dog and cat dentals will be 20% off
the regular price. The hospital is located at 13420 E 146th St N, next
to Mazzio's or visit www.eastsideveterinaryhospital.com
for more information.
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