February is National Pet Dental Health Month

February is National Pet Dental Health Month

What do you do for your pup’s teeth?  If you’re like most people you don’t brush your dog’s teeth twice a day, and unfortunately as many times as you tell Fido do he never seems to brush his own teeth.  There are though simple things you can do to help with your pet’s dental care.  Besides from brushing their teeth, make sure you’re providing them with a healthy diet along with plenty of chew toys.  Unfortunately many dogs show signs of gum disease by the time they are four years old.  Bad breath is typically the first sign of a problem.  There are a variety of dental care products on market to aid in combating bad breath.  At Preferred Pet Care Inc. we carry Tropiclean.  Tropiclean’s products are made with natural ingredients and they offer products such as water additives, teeth cleaning gel, fresh mint foam, liquid floss, dental treats and more.  We have from personal experience seen improvement from these products. 

The ASPCA recommends these ten steps to your dog’s dental health…

1.       Breath Test- Simple enough, sniff your dog’s breath.  Of course since they don’t brush their teeth daily some doggie breath is normal; however if it’s especially offensive along with a loss of appetite, vomiting, excessive drinking or urination it would be a good idea to consult your veterinarian. 

2.       Lip Service- Once a week check your pup’s gums and teeth.  The gums should be pink, not red or white.  The gums should also have no signs of swelling or bleeding.  The teeth should be clean without any brownish tartar. 

3.       Signs of Disease- Bad breath, excessive drooling, inflamed gums, tumors in the gums, cysts under the tongue, and loose teeth are all signs of periodontal disease.

4.       The Lowdown on Tooth Decay- Just like with people bacteria and plaque forming foods can cause buildup.  The buildup can harden and turn into tartar.  The tartar can then possibly lead to gingivitis, receding gums, and tooth loss.  The main solution would be regular teeth cleanings. 

5.       Canine Tooth-Brushing Kit- If your pup will let you the best way to prevent dental disease would be to brush their teeth.  If you plan on brushing your pet’s teeth make sure to purchase a toothbrush that’s specially designed for canines, or you can first start with a clean soft piece of gauze.  Additionally make sure to use toothpaste that is specifically designed for dogs. 

6.       Brightening the Pearly Whites- Before you can be a pro at brushing your dog’s teeth you’ll probably have to get them use to the idea of it.  Start by massaging their lips in a circular motion for 30-60 seconds once or twice a day for a couple week.  Then move on to doing the same thing with their teeth and gums.  Once your pup is comfortable then start with the same action with toothpaste.  Use clean gauze on your finger, apply a little toothpaste and try that out on your pup.  Then gradually buildup to using their toothbrush. 

7.       Brushing Technique- There is a technique to brushing your pup’s teeth.  Angle the toothbrush at a 45 degree angle and brush in small circular motions.  Start with one area at a time.  Don’t expect a miracle overnight, if it’s been years since your pup has had their teeth brushed that also means they may have some plague and tartar buildup. 

8.       Know Your Mouth Disorders- Familiarize yourself with possible mouth problems your dog may encounter.  Some of the more common problems are gingivitis, halitosis, swollen gums, proliferating gum disease, mouth tumors, and salivary cysts. 

9.       Chew on This- Chew toys can help your dog’s natural desire to chomp along with helping to make their teeth strong.  Gnawing on a chew toy can also help massage their gums and help keep their teeth clean by scarping away at soft tartar. 

10.   Diet for Healthy Teeth- Ask your veterinarian about a diet specially formulated to help slow down the formation of plague and tartar.  Additionally avoid feeding your dog table scraps.