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

As Thanksgiving approaches, we all prepare to indulge in festive treats and a hearty Thanksgiving meal. But as pet owners, we must remember that our furry friends should not indulge in the same way. This Thanksgiving, we have compiled a list of foods your pet should avoid. Read on to learn how to keep your pets safe while you enjoy a delicious feast.

As pet owners, we can attest that flea infestation can not only be annoying but also extremely dangerous to our pets. Fleas can cause severe skin irritation, anemia, and even transmit deadly diseases. As we approach the fall season, it's essential to be proactive in preventing fleas before they become a problem. In this article, we will discuss the flea life cycle, the dangers of fleas infesting your pet, signs to look out for, the benefits of flea prevention, and why you should purchase flea prevention medication from us, your trusted veterinarian.

Back to school season is an exciting time for kids, but for pets, it can be the source of anxiety and stress. After a summer filled with playtime, cuddles, and attention, the sudden decrease in activity can have a profound impact on our pets. It's common for pets to experience separation anxiety when their families head back to work and school, and it's important for pet owners to recognize the signs and take steps to help their pets adjust. In this blog post, we will discuss some strategies to help your pets ease into a quieter home.

As pet owners, it's crucial to prioritize the mental and physical health of our beloved companions. One of the most common causes of stress in pets is summer thunderstorms and fireworks. During these events, pets exhibit various behaviors that indicate fear and stress.When experiencing a thunderstorm or fireworks, pets may pant excessively, bark or howl, tremble, hide, or even become destructive. These behaviors can be alarming and cause stress to both the pet and the owner.So what can you do to help alleviate your furry friend's stress during these situations?

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!