PET DENTAL MONTH

Dental care is very important to your pet, especially since heso often uses his mouth to interact with the world. According to the American Veterinarian Dental Society, by the age of three, more than 80 percent of dogs show signs of gumdisease. If left untreated, gum disease leads to tooth decay andtooth loss. A chipped or fractured tooth, can cause infection which may lead to the tooth being extracted. Furthermore,untreated problems can have an effect on overall health,leading to heart, lung, and kidney disease. Simple steps takennow can prevent many problems down the road.

• Feed a diet of dry food. Dry food is abrasive, helping tokeep the teeth clean.
• Provide the right toys. Never let a dog play with anobject that’s harder than his teeth. Knuckle bones are too hard for many dogs (nylon bones are a better alternative).
• BRUSH! Three times a week, brush your dog’s teeth and gums, using a soft toothbrush. Starting this habit early can make it a pleasant experience for you and your dog. Be sure to use special toothpaste made for dogs; never use human toothpaste.
• Regular yearly examinations by your veterinarian. It isimportant to have your vet examine his teeth and gums at least once a year. This is the best way to catch problems before they become too serious.