Caring for your pet’s teeth is essential to their health. Neglected teeth can lead to systemic infections and heart disease as well as gum infections, abscesses, and bad breath.
Caring for your pet’s teeth at home is an essential way to help keep your pet’s teeth healthy and their breath nice and fresh. When you are looking in your pet’s mouth regularly, you will notice issues early, while they are still minor, saving your pet, and your wallet, unnecessary pain and suffering.
You should brush your pet’s teeth at home regularly. I recommend using a good enzymatic toothpaste, followed by an enzymatic oral rinse. The enzymes in these products will keep the gums healthy and prevent tarter buildup on the teeth. Assess the condition of your pet’s teeth and gums. Are you noticing a lot of tarter build up on the teeth? What about red or inflamed gums? How about any chipped, broken or loose teeth? Also, look for any unusual growths in the mouth. If you notice any issues, check with your vet for the best course of action.
There are a lot of dental chews and treats on the market that can also be beneficial. Intestinal blockage from chews that splinter or break off in chunks that are then swallowed by your dog are a common and life threatening problem. Make sure the chews you pick are appropriate for your dog’s size so that he/she can’t bite off large chunks and swallow them. Look for treats that are digestible, and talk to your vet about which one’s are safe.
Having your pet’s teeth cleaned professionally each year should be a priority. Your veterinarian is trained to prevent problems before they become major health issues. Find a way to fit dental cleanings into your budget! I guarantee it will save you money in the long run.
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