FEBRUARY IS NATIONAL PET DENTAL HEALTH MONTH

   Although dental health for your pet family members is important all year long, the AVMA (American Veterinary Medical Association) as well as several other veterinary groups sponsor National Pet Dental Health Month during the month of February.

   Don't discount bad breath as simply smelly.  Bad breath can mean a variety of health problems even affecting the internal organs of your pet.  Did you know that the most common problem in pets diagnosed is periodontal disease? Periodontal disease can lead to painful infections in your pets mouth, which can spread and become life-threatening.  Periodontal disease is an infection of your pets gums. Diabetes, heart attacks, strokes and kidney disease in many cases are linked to periodontal disease.   70% of cats and 80% of dogs have peridontal disease by the age of two.

The best prevention is brushing your pets teeth daily. That will be discussed in greater detail in the next blog.   Regular visits to your veterinarian are also important for dental check ups.