Untreated dental problems in pets have been linked to serious medical conditions such as aspirated pneumonia, heart disease, kidney disease, and liver disease. Such diseases can affect the quality and longevity of your pet's life, not to mention your bank account. This happens because plaque and bacteria that covers your pet's teeth can pass into their bloodstream. That bloodstream is directly connected to all of their body's vital organs. In order to maintain your pet's health, it is important to recognize the signs of dental disease.
Dental disease presents itself much like it would in people. Open your pet's mouth. Some questions you should ask yourself are: Does his breath smell? What to his gums look like? Do his teeth look dirty? Despite the common misconception, your pet's breath should not stink. His gums should be pink, like the color of shrimp, and his teeth should be reasonably white. All of this can be evaluated at home, and also when you brush your pet's teeth.
In addition to at home dental care, it is important to schedule routine visits with your vet. Have your pet's mouth evaluated by a professional at least once a year. Come in to see us in February and celebrate Dental Month with a top notch dental cleaning at a discounted price!