February is Dental Month

Here are some tips for your Dog's Dental Health:

1.  The Breath Test - If your pet's breath is especially offensive and is accompanied by a loss of appetite, vomiting or excessive drinking or urinating, it's a good idea to take your pet to the vet.

2.  Lip Service - Once a week, with your dog facing you, look at his gums and teeth.  The gums should be pink and show no signs of swelling.  The teeth should be clean with no brownish tartar.

3.  Signs of Oral Disease - Bad breath, excessive drooling, inflamed gums, tumors in the gums, cysts under the tongue or loose teeth are signs that your pet may have a problem and should be checked by a veterinarian.

4.  Tooth Decay - Bacteria and plague-forming foods can cause build-up on a dog's teeth.  This can harden into tartar, which in turn can cause gingivitis, receding gums and tooth loss.  Regular teeth cleanings can help with this.

5.  Canine Tooth-Brushing Kit - Get yourself a toothbrush made especially for canines or a clean piece of soft gauze to wrap around your finger.  Ask your vet for a toothpaste made especially for canines or make a paste out of baking soda and water.  Never use flouride with dogs under 6 months of age - it can interfere with their enamel formation.  And never use human toothpaste as it wil irritate your dog's stomach.

6.  Chew toys can satisfy your dog's natural desire to chomp while making his teeth strong.  Gnawing on a chew toy can also help massage his gums and help keep his teeth clean.  They are also stress relievers and gives your pet an outlet for his natural need to chew.  Ask your vet to recommend toxin-free toys.

7.  Diet - Avoid feeding your dog table scraps.  Give him treats that are especially formulated to keep canine teeth healthy.

Following these steps will promote healthy teeth which in turn will give you a happy, healthy pet!!