February is National Pet Dental Health Month and it is important that we take care of our pet’s dental health. Animal Planet says “Vets say 85 percent of canines over age 4 have some form of gum disease. Other frequent problems include crooked, cracked or loose teeth, an infection or an abscess. You may not even know when your dog has oral discomfort. … Any time you suspect a problem, check with your vet, who may refer you to a veterinary dentist”.
How would you know that they have a problem? Some of the more common signs according to VCS Hospitals, include:
- Difficulty eating
- Drooling
- Pawing at the teeth or mouth
- Discharge from the nose
- Swelling under the eyes
- Bad breath
- Tooth discoloration or visible tartar
- Loose or missing teeth
- Red, swollen or bleeding gums
- Weight loss or loss of appetite
They also say “In addition to local damage in the mouth, periodontal disease may also result in widespread organ damage. Organ damage from canine periodontal disease occurs when bacteria from the infected tooth roots and gums gain access to the blood stream (a condition called bacteremia). Studies have shown that dogs with severe periodontal disease have more damage in their kidneys, heart muscle and liver than dogs without periodontal disease”.
Check out Product of the Week to see appropriate chews that will help your pet.
