Turner Veterinary Clinic News
It's National Pet Dental Health Month
The American Veterinary Medical Association declared February as National Pet Dental Health Month several years ago to underscore the importance of oral healthcare. Did you know that up to 80 percent of dogs and 70 percent of cats develop periodontal disease by the time they are three years old? This is alarming because untreated periodontal disease can cause infection by spreading to other areas of the body. It can also cause your pet to lose teeth, making it more difficult for him to chew food and get the nutrition he needs to remain healthy.
Preventing Dental Disease in Dogs and Cats
Proper brushing and regular dental exams are one key to your pet’s oral health. The other is providing her with nutritious, species-appropriate food. The best pet foods have little or no added fillers. Additionally, they contain enough meat and protein to provide energy. Dental chews for dogs can help reduce plaque and tartar, but you should not give one to your dog in place of regular brushing. The toothbrush and toothpaste you buy should also be species-specific.
To brush your pet’s teeth, have him sit in a relaxed position and then follow these steps:
- Massage the cheeks for several seconds
- Introduce toothpaste by placing a small dab on your finger or a treat and allow her to lick it off
- Place a small amount of toothpaste on a toothbrush and place in your pet’s mouth without brushing
- When your pet appears comfortable with the process, brush the surface of one tooth at a time
- Retract the lips so you can reach the back molars
- Concentrate on the upper and outer molars if your pet only tolerates brushing for a short time
- Gradually increase total brushing time from a few seconds to two minutes
Be sure to praise your pet for any cooperation that you get. Eventually, she will come to accept toothbrushing as part of the daily routine.
When to Schedule an Immediate Appointment
Please contact Turner Veterinary Clinic right away if you notice any of these symptoms:
- Bleeding, red, or swollen gums
- Bad breath
- Drooling more than usual
- Hesitancy to eat
- Brown or yellow deposits on the teeth
These symptoms could indicate that your pet has an infection or another dental issue requiring prompt treatment.
Dr. Huelsbergen checks the condition of your pet’s teeth and gums at every preventive care appointment. He will recommend scheduling a follow-up appointment for any noted concerns.
Categories
Recent Posts
The holidays are a time for family, friends, and fun. But for pet owners, they can also be a time to spoil their furry friends! There are so many ways to make your pet's holiday season special. In this blog post, we will discuss five of the best ways to spoil your pet this year. From gift ideas to treats to activities, we have you covered!
One of the most rewarding things about being a pet owner is knowing that you've given an animal a loving home for the rest of their days. And what could be more rewarding than giving a senior pet a "new leash on life"? Senior pets are often passed over in favor of puppies and kittens, but they have so much to offer! Here are five reasons to consider adopting a senior pet today:
Just like humans, our pets can suffer from obesity. As pet owners, it's our responsibility to make sure our animal companions stay at a healthy weight. Not only does obesity limit your pet's mobility, but it can also lead to a host of health problems and make your pet more susceptible to disease. Here's what you need to know about pet obesity and how to prevent it.
When our pets are sick or injured, they can’t tell us where it hurts or how they feel. However, there are subtle signs that can help you determine when your pet isn’t feeling well. Knowing how to recognize these hidden signs of pain is essential for getting your pet the help they need and improving their comfort.
Is your pet constantly scratching? Pets can suffer from various skin issues that can cause extreme discomfort. Some pets may develop skin irritation as a result of allergies, while other pets may be itchy from fleas or other parasites. To provide your pet some itch relief, you’ll need to know what to look for and what is causing your pet’s problem.