We know about Valentine's Day in February, and President's Day and Black History Month.
Did you know that February is National Pet Dental Health Month? Keeping your pet’s teeth clean can be an unpleasant, tedious and expensive task, but oral health is as important in pets as it is in humans. The American Veterinary Medical Association estimates that by age of two more than 80 percent of dogs and 70 percent of cats have periodontal disease; this infection can spread and cause serious health risks.
Brad Kriser, healthy pet expert and founder of Kriser’s all-natural pet food and supplies stores, offers the following pet dental hygiene tips for pet parents.
- Brush Daily: While it may seem difficult to get your pet to cooperate, slowly try to incorporate a brushing routine into your pet’s life. You can start by massaging around their teeth until you can get your finger or a pet toothbrush into their mouth.
- Try Different Brushing Tools: The Triple Pet Toothbrush is great for daily brushing. However, if you can’t get your pet comfortable with a toothbrush in his mouth, the Finger Brush is a great alternative. If your pet won’t even allow a finger brush in his mouth, Petz Life Oral Gel is an excellent solution to maintaining your pet’s oral hygiene.
- Know the Symptoms: If you can spot symptoms of gum disease in your pet, you will be able to get them treated before symptoms worsen. Watch out for brown or yellow tartar build up, inflammation and persistent bad breath.
- Added Help: Special supplements added to your pet’s food or healthy chew toys your pet can safely gnaw on can also help aid dental hygiene.
You know there's a reason for the expression "dog breath." Now there's something you can do about, for your pooch.
