It can be very annoying to have doggie breath. Dog owners will do anything to get rid of it or cover it up. Be aware pet oral careIt goes beyond the prevention of bad doggie breath. Bad gum health can allow bacteria to enter the circulatory system of a pet, which can have detrimental effects on vital organs.
The leading cause of periodontal disease in dogs and cats is not providing regular at-home dental care, veterinary evaluations and treatments. Plaque builds up on pets’ teeth as bacteria and food particles build up and create a biofilm. Plaque can irritate the gum line, cause gingivitis, and harden on the tooth surfaces to form tartar. Gingivitis can progress to periodontal diseases if there is more plaque. Gingivitis can cause bacterial overgrowth in the pet’s circulation system and could eventually lead to damage to vital organs.
“Gum disease, which research tells us can affect more than just a pet’s mouth, is initiated by plaque accumulating on teeth and not being cleaned,”Dr. Jan Bellows is a veterinary dentist and incoming president at the American Veterinary Dental College. “The good news is every pet parent has the power to keep their pet’s teeth clean and gums healthy. It starts with daily at-home oral care with brushing or Veterinary Oral Health Council (http://www.vohc.org”>www.vohc.org)-approved dental products. And each pet should have a veterinary oral exam at least annually with professional cleanings as advised.”
Greenies Brand has just introduced a new canine dental chew. It carries the Veterinary Oral Health Seal of Approval for reducing plaque and tartar buildup, and is clinically proven that it helps maintain healthier gums. Greenies’ fifth-generation chews are highly digestible and contain added vitamins and minerals. They are also nutritionally balanced and available at veterinary clinics and specialty shops nationwide.
For more information, please visit www.greenies.com.
