February is National
Pet Dental
Health Month
Proper Dental Care can add 3-5 years to your pet’s life.
Could you image what would happen if we decided to never brush our teeth again? Ick!! Unable to brush their own teeth, pets rely on their owners and veterinarians to provide the dental care necessary for a healthy mouth. During the month of February, National Pet Dental Health Month, we at the Four Seasons Animal Hospital want to shed some light on the most common disease affecting dogs and cats: Dental Disease.
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, “more than 85 percent of dogs and cats that are at least 4 years old have a condition in which bacteria attack the soft gum tissue.” This condition is called periodontal disease. Not sure if your pet is in need of a Dental cleaning just yet? During February, call to make an appointment for a FREE Dental Exam and receive a FREE toothbrush or finger brush to help keep your pet’s teeth clean all year long. Also, look out for the following warning signs as any of these can be an indication that your pets’ teeth are bothering them:
>Bad Breath
>Tooth Loss
>Abnormal Drooling
>Bleeding Gums
>Subdued Behavior
>Change in Eating or Chewing Habits
Still wondering why Dental Health is so important for your dog or cat? The simple answer is that Infection Spreads! When periodontal disease is left untreated it can become a real danger to your pet’s health. Harmful bacteria caused by this disease can enter the blood stream. Dirty teeth may smell and look bad, but the damage that you don't see could be much worse. The gum tissue has an extensive blood supply, so when periodontal infection starts, these bacteria get into your pet’s circulation and can eventually lead to heart, liver, kidney and bone and joint disease, including organ failure.
Now the last step is to schedule a Dental Cleaning for your pet. In recognition of National Pet Dental Health month we are offering a 10% discount on the following dental services during the month of February: Anesthetic & Monitoring, Dental Cleaning, Extractions (if needed), and Fluoride Treatment. Remember this is in addition to the FREE Dental Exam and FREE toothbrush or finger brush we are also offering during February. Do not miss out. Your pet, and his mouth, will thank you!!
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Brushing Your Pet’s Teeth 101 |
1) Begin with a Pet safe toothbrush or finger brush
2) Be sure to use a Pet specific toothpaste (poultry or beef flavors are usually preferred)
3) Place some toothpaste on the brush and let your pet lick the toothpaste (this shows your pet that the toothpaste tastes good)
4) Once your pet is okay with some touching on his mouth, place your hand over his muzzle with your fingers near the gums
5) Gently squeeze and push your pet's lips up on one side between the back teeth
6) Pull your pet's head back gently so his mouth opens
7) Brush the teeth and gums (the gums are the most important area to focus on as this is where tartar buildup first starts
8) Repeat this process for the other side
9) Repeat the brushing at least every 2-3 days |