Monday, February 10, 2014

February is National Pet Dental Health Month


February is National Pet Dental Health Month. According to the American Veterinary Dental Society, oral disease is the most frequently diagnosed health problem for pets. The disease should be a serious concern, as left untreated it may lead to infections in other areas of the body. The AVMA reports the organs most often affected by oral diseases are the lungs, heart, kidneys and liver, and even the nervous system.

The signs of dental disease in pets, as stated by The American Veterinary Dental College, the clinical specialist organization for veterinary dentists, include:
  • Bad breath
  • Loose or discolored teeth or teeth covered in tartar
  • Pet is not comfortable with you touching within the mouth area
  • Drooling or dropping food from the mouth
  • Bleeding from the mouth
  • Loss of appetite or loss of weight       
 Steps To Keep Your Pet's Mouth Healthy
  1. Have your Vet examines your pet's teeth, at least once a year, to determine if there is a current problem and treat as advised.
  2. Start an at-home regimen to care for your pets teeth including feeding a fresh foods diet and teeth brushing.
  3. Schedule professional dental cleanings for your pet regularly.
  4. Use Power Probiotic, Gastro ULC, and K9 Digestive Enzymes to promote good gastrointestinal health.  Saliva is a core part of tartar accumulation and acidic saliva (due to digestive upset and acid stomach) can result in acid erosion of the teeth.