Pet Health News

Are you looking for ways to show your pet some extra love this Valentine’s Day? While toys and treats are great, there is nothing better than giving your pet the gift of health. February is National Pet Dental Health Month and an excellent time to make your pet’s dental health a priority.

Here are a few ways you can improve your pet’s dental health and show their teeth some love all year long!

Benefits of Brushing Your Pet’s Teeth

Brushing your pet’s teeth does more than just improve their breath. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, the majority of adult pets have some degree of dental disease. This condition is also known as periodontal disease and is caused by plaque and tartar buildup on your pet’s teeth. This buildup can spread below your pet’s gum line, causing gum inflammation and irritation.

As plaque and tartar accumulate, the amount of bacteria in your pet’s mouth will also increase. Not only is this bad for your pet’s oral health, but bacteria can also enter your pet’s bloodstream and spread throughout their body. This can have a significant impact on your pet’s long-term health.

The more frequently you brush your pet’s teeth, the better you can prevent the harmful repercussions of dental disease. Make sure you are using pet-friendly toothpaste. Not only does pet-friendly toothpaste come in a variety of tasty flavors, but they are also free of harmful ingredients that can be found in human products.

If you have questions about your brushing technique, let us know at your next wellness appointment. We can discuss your pet’s dental routine and how to make the process as stress-free as possible.

Trading Treats for Dental Chews

While treats can be delicious, they are not always the best for your pet’s health. This Valentine’s Day, consider trading out your pet’s high-calorie treats for healthy dental chews. Dental chews can help remove plaque while still serving as a tasty snack. Dental chews are not only a great option for a special Valentine’s Day treat, but they are also a great way to improve your pet’s dental health year-round.

When purchasing dental chews, look for products with a Veterinary Oral Health Council seal of approval. This means that the dental product has undergone a thorough review by veterinary professionals and is certified to improve your pet’s dental health. We are also happy to make recommendations based on your pet’s specific needs.

Schedule Your Pet’s Dental Cleaning

Do you know the last time your pet received a professional dental cleaning? At-home care is an important part of improving your pet’s oral health. However, professional care is still a necessity. We recommend that adult pets receive a dental cleaning approximately once a year.

These cleanings allow our veterinary team to remove all of your pet’s stubborn tartar, including the buildup that accumulates under the gum line. Professional dental cleanings are performed while your pet is under anesthesia. This helps keep your pet comfortable and allows us to perform a thorough cleaning.

Final Thoughts

We hope this article has given you some ideas on how you can improve your pet’s dental health. While February is a great time to show your pet’s teeth some extra TLC, it’s crucial to maintain healthy dental habits all year long. If you have additional questions about your pet’s dental care or would like to schedule an appointment, please give us a call.

Image credit: Irina Lesovaia / iStock / Getty Images Plus