Does your best friend walk on four legs and answer to the name of Fido, or Fred? In other words, is your dog the light of your life and your very best pal? Many pet parents go to great lengths to help keep their pups, really their furry family members, healthy. From buying organic dog food to taking their companions for regular visits to the veterinarian, they do all they can to help keep their best friends feeling great, and having fun, for as long as possible. Sadly, many people neglect their dogs’ dental health. This can lead to a variety of dental problems, from lesions similar to dental cavities, and gum disease, to which both dogs and cats are susceptible. So if you want to make sure 2017 is a banner year for your best friend, make sure you’re caring for your dog’s smile, as well as his overall health!
What Can Happen to Dogs’ Without Dental Care?
Unlike humans, who often experience noticeable warning signs of dental decay and other oral health threats, many pets don’t give any indication that they could be sick or even suffering from decay. This unfortunately can lead to great progression of oral health issues before a person even notices there is an issue.
This is one example why regular dental visits are important for the oral health of dogs, just like humans, so that the dentist can help to spot any issues before they have caused extensive damage.
Similar to how humans can experience cavities when the teeth are not properly cared for, dogs can have painful lesions. Periodontitis and gum disease are also common. Sadly, there are many oral diseases that are prominent in species of both dogs and cats, as well. To help prevent them, regular dental care is crucial.
Help Them Enjoy Good Oral Health with Simple Tools and Tips
To help protect your pet’s smile, it is best to take him or her for regular routine care. That said, there are also steps you can take, at home, to help keep your pup’s smile healthy. For instance, you can purchase food for your dog that is good for his or her overall health and particularly his smile. Talk to your veterinarian about the kinds and brands that would be best for your dog’s breed.
Your dog would also benefit from having his or her teeth brushed once a day, as well, using a toothpaste designed specifically for dogs. With some practice, both you and your pup should get used to this simple routine quickly. Of course, there are specially made chew toys and treats that also help to create the abrasion necessary to clean the teeth’s surface.