February is National Pet Dental Health Month

Since February is National Pet Dental Health Month, we’d like to give 15% off all dental cleanings. When was the last time you checked Fido or Fluffy’s pearly (or not-so-pearly) whites or took them to the vet for a dental exam? The majority of people consider brushing their teeth part of a healthy daily routine, but most don’t give nearly the same attention to routine dental care for their dogs and cats. Many pet owners may not realize just how crucial oral care is for their four-legged friends. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), an organization dedicated to advancing the science and art of veterinary medicine, 80% of dogs and 70% of cats show signs of oral disease by the age of three.

Dental Disease Can Be Deadly

Preventive dental care can help prevent severe health problems. Many pet owners seem to de-prioritize their fuzzy friends’ dental care. Dental care is key in maintaining a pet’s overall health. Bacteria in your pet’s mouth can get into his/her bloodstream and permeate different organs, causing infections that can potentially cause death. The AVMA reports the organs most often affected by oral diseases are the lungs, heart, kidneys, liver, and even the nervous system.

Dental Care is Simple

Pet owners can brush up on their four-legged friends’ oral care by following three simple guidelines outlined by the American Veterinary Dental Society (AVDS):

1. Take your pet to get a dental exam. Your pet should have a routine vet exam, including a careful examination of his/her teeth and gums, at least once a year.
2. Start an at-home regimen. Ask your vet to suggest nutritional supplements and a regular teeth brushing schedule or a specially formulated food proven to help remove plaque and tartar from your pet’s teeth.
3. Schedule dental cleanings. Take your pet for regular dental checkups.

With regular dental care from your vet followed by maintenance at home, you can prevent dental disease in your pets before it becomes a serious problem.

Know What’s Going on With Your Pets

Have you looked at the inside of your pet’s mouth lately? Does your pet’s mouth smell bad? Have you noticed any problems with your pet eating hard food or treats? Is your pet 3 years old or older? If you answered yes to any of these questions, there’s a strong change that your pet needs a teeth cleaning. Over 75% of pets in the U.S. over 3 years of age (or younger with toy breeds) have some degree of dental disease. If your pet is current on his/her yearly exams but you want to find it he/she has any dental disease, you can schedule a dental evaluation with your vet. If your pet isn’t current on his/her yearly exams, please call your vet as soon as possible to schedule an appointment.