February is National Pet Dental Month!

Why is dental care for my pet important?

Tartar and gingivitis are two of the most common problems seen by veterinarians. Poor dental hygiene can lead to gum disease, loss of teeth and if left untreated, could develop into more serious conditions such as bacterial infections of the heart, liver, or kidneys. In fact, 80 percent of dogs and 70 percent of cats show signs of oral and dental disease by the age of three. 

Top 3 Tips for Pet Dental Health

1. Daily Brushing: Brushing your pet's teeth helps to remove plaque and slow the development of tartar. When first beginning to brush, be gradual and make it a pleasant experience. It is recommended to use a finger brush and you can eventually add pet toothpaste (do not use human toothpaste). Be sure to reward your pet afterward with play or a nice walk!

2. Diet: What your pet eats affects his smile. Dry foods and treats can help clean plaque from teeth. Real bones can be dangerous for your pet (raw bones, for instance, can scrape and tear internal organs and can easily become a choking hazard) and should not be used for teeth-cleaning purposes.

3. Dentistry: Talk to your veterinarian about annual or semiannual teeth cleaning. A teeth cleaning performed by your vet is the only way to remove tartar build up. Just as you would schedule a cleaning, be sure to calendar in your pet's cleaning as well.

 

Helpful Dental Care Hints

from Morris Animal Inn:

· Improve your pet's dental health with our Teethbrushing Services at our Grooming Salon and Spa.

· Keep your pet's breath smelling fresh by using the FreshPet oral hygiene products available for purchase in our lobby! 

Source: Iams Pet Wellness Council. "Top 3 Dog Dental Care Tips." DogTime. Iams Pet Wellness Council, 1 Feb. 2010. Web. 28 Jan. 2013. <http://dogtime.com/dental-care-top-3-tips.html>.

reade more... Résuméabuiyad

Brush-a, Brush-a, Brush-a!

When we think of February, groundhogs, roses, and presidents often come to mind. But if you are a pet owner, you should start thinking teeth as well. The American Veterinary Medical Association has decided to add an important topic into the short, but significant month of February. So pull out those toothbrushes and grab your pets, its officially Pet Dental Health Month!

Teeth Trouble
According to the American Veterinary Dental Society, “more than 80% of dogs and 70% of cats develop periodontal disease by age 3.” This is a common ailment that plagues our pets since we rarely remember that, just as our teeth need regular brushing, so do Fido and Fluffy’s. Signs of gum disease are brown and yellow tarter build-up, red or inflamed gums, and stinky breath according to the Pet Dental Health website. It is normal for dogs to have bad breath, but if it gets to the point where you no longer want doggie kisses, it might be time to have your veterinarian examine your pup’s chompers. In fact, regular dental exams with your veterinarian are vital to maintaining proper dental health. In addition, it is important to invest in your own canine and feline dental regime.

Plaque Prevention

Begin by introducing your pet to the taste of toothpaste by allowing them to lick it off your finger. Pets have their own specially formulated toothpaste that blends the taste of yummy flavors appealing to cat and dogs, such as beef and cheese. Human toothpaste will only upset their stomachs. When they begin to accept the taste and texture, try putting it on a small toothbrush, piece of gauze, or a finger toothbrush and scrub gently on each side for 30 seconds, or as long as your dog or cat will allow. Ideally, you should make this a daily habit that coincides with your own dental health routine. If your pet resists your efforts, don’t despair. Other options include anti-plaque water additives which can be diffused in your pets’ water bowl, oral hygiene gels, dental chew toys, and crunchy treats and bones that all help to prevent plaque build-up. Just pick up a few of these products at your pet’s next visit to Morris Animal Inn!

Start Today, Don’t Delay
A dog with pearly whites is a healthy dog indeed. Before your pet’s dental health deteriorates, commit to a plan that will keep everyone smiling. In light of Pet Dental Health Month, Morris Animal Inn is providing free, “Fresh Breath” treats with the purchase of any of our TropiClean “Fresh Breath” products!

Need more help? Watch this informative video provided by the AVAM.

Sources:

http://us1.campaign-archive2.com/?u=a31082e37c8d5ddfc22af894f&id=217acdfa36&e=02935a26d2

http://www.petdental.com/pd2/displayContent.jsp?FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=2534374302025934&bmUID=1296819689437

reade more... Résuméabuiyad