There are plenty of jokes about "doggy breath," but it's really not a laughing matter. The bacteria lurking in the mouth of your dog or cat may signal a health problem much worse than simple bad breath. Before they are 4 years old, more than 85 percent of dogs and cats have periodontal disease, a condition in which bacteria attack the soft gum tissue, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association. Brushing pet’s teeth
reduces health risksBy Hawaiian Humane Society
Beyond tooth loss, the real threat from dental disease is the health risk from the infection periodontal disease can cause. The infection produces bacteria that can spread throughout the body each time your pet swallows. Major organs such as the liver, lungs, kidneys and heart can be adversely affected by this bacteria.
HAWAIIAN HUMANE SOCIETY PHOTO
Joanne Tanimoto brushes Sampson's teeth regularly and he enjoys the process. For your pet, start with short tooth-brushing sessions and be patient -- the health benefits are worth it.
You'll find lots of pet treats that are supposed to be good for your pet's dental health, but remember that only brushing removes plaque at the gum line. If the plaque has progressed into tartar, a yellow, flaky coating, it's time to consult with veterinarian. Like humans, most pets will benefit from periodic professional teeth cleaning.
To emphasize the importance of regular dental care for pets, February has been named as National Pet Dental Health Month by the AVMA. So if you haven't been brushing your pet's teeth, this is a good time to pick up the right products and start your pet on the road to better health and a prettier smile.
Pick a pet-appropriate toothbrush and toothpaste available from your veterinarian or pet store. Don't use human toothpaste -- it can cause an upset stomach. The toothpaste comes in flavors that your companion animal will enjoy, and includes enzymes that prevent tartar from forming.
Choose products that have the VOHC Seal. Established in 1997, the Veterinary Oral Health Council reviews products claiming to reduce plaque in cats and dogs. If a product meets certain standards, the manufacturer may use the VOHC Seal of Acceptance on packaging. Your veterinarian should check your pet's mouth and teeth at every visit and recommend if additional dental care is needed.
For more information on pet dental care and National Pet Dental Health Month, visit www.petdental.com. You can view a step-by-step guide to brushing including a video showing a veterinarian brushing a dog's teeth. Look for tips on what you can feed Fido and Fluffy to enhance their dental health, and there's a fun game of pet trivia, too.
So begin caring for your pet's dental health in February, and then continue all year long. You'll help prevent periodontal disease and ensure a healthier life and gorgeous smile. Not to mention fresh breath!
Dental advice will
keep pets feeling good
Good pet dental advice comes in threes:>> Three symptoms of dental disease in dogs and cats: persistent bad breath; red, inflamed gums; yellow and brown tartar buildup along the gum line.
>> Three dental dangers to avoid: Bacterial toxins are spread through the bloodstream; periodontal disease results in tooth loss; major organs are affected by infectious bacteria.
>> Three reasons why dental disease is so common: "Dog breath" is accepted as normal; pet foods leave a sticky film on teeth; animals can't brush their own teeth.
>> Three steps to healthy teeth: Visit your veterinarian for a checkup; start a pet dental care routine at home; continue regular veterinary visits.
>> Three tips to easy brushing: Wrap small dogs and cats in a towel positioned in your lap; brush in a circular motion at the gum line; keep your brushing sessions short and positive, especially when you first begin.
Free spaying offered
Feb. 27 is Spay Day, and the Hawaiian Humane Society will give away 500 appointments for free spay and neuter surgery for dogs and cats. For more information, see the calendar of events at www.hawaiianhumane.org.
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calendars and events.
