Tag Archives: dog dental care tips

Dog Care

Pet Dental Health Tips

February is Pet Dental Health Month! This is a very important topic, and is definitely something we want to shine a light on. Dental problems are much more common in pets than many people realize. Just as with people, these issues are very painful, and can lead to tooth loss, infections, and difficulty chewing and eating. A Roanoke, VA vet lists some tips on caring for your pet’s teeth in this article.

Know Warning Signs

Pets can’t tell you if their mouths hurt, and the signs can be subtle. Keep an eye out for red flags. These include bad breath, tartar buildup, bleeding gums, drooling, dribbling food, and swelling. You may also notice changes in your furry friend’s mood and/or eating habits. For instance, Fido and Fluffy may chew on one side of their mouth. They may also not feel very playful.

Brush Their Teeth

Brushing your pet’s teeth is just as beneficial for them as brushing your own is for you. It helps clean away food particles, and helps keep plaque and tartar from forming. Training, of course, is the big hurdle here. Start small, by just rubbing your furry buddy’s teeth as you gently stroke and pet them. Once they’ve gotten used to that, you can work in a pet toothbrush and toothpaste.

Offer Alternative

Some pets are just too fidgety to accept having their teeth handled. If you’re having a hard time, ask your vet to recommend other dental products. There are some great ones out there! These include things like oral flakes, dental rinses, or dental formula treats and chews.

Provide Fresh Water

Keeping your four-legged friend properly hydrated is of course crucial to their survival, but it’s also very important to their oral health. Consider getting a pet drinking fountain: many animals prefer to drink running water.  

Give Your Dog A Chew

Chewing is a natural behavior for dogs, and it’s one that should be encouraged. Just make sure Fido is only gnawing on safe, suitable objects. Ask your vet for recommendations.

Exams

We recommend having your vet check your furry pal’s teeth annually, starting when they are about a year old. You’ll also need to make an appointment right away if you notice any of the warning signs we mentioned above.

Do you have questions about your pet’s health or care? Contact us, your Roanoke, VA animal clinic, anytime! 

Dog Care, General Care, General Health

5 Things That Are Good For Your Dog’s Teeth

Did you know that dental issues are one of the most overlooked aspects of dog care? Some of the most loving and attentive pet owners overlook their pups’ oral health. Fido can develop some very painful dental issues, so it’s very important for you to take care of his teeth. In this article, a Roanoke, VA vet lists some things that are good for your furry friend’s choppers.

Brushing

Fido’s toothbrush is your first and most effective weapon against doggy dental woes. Of course, you’ll need to get your pooch used to the idea. Start by just gently rubbing his teeth and gums. Then, slowly incorporate doggy toothpaste and, finally, a pet toothbrush. You don’t have to do your furry pal’s entire mouth every day. Just do one segment at a time, and keep rotating.

Fresh Water

Fresh water is crucial for many reasons, but it’s also extremely important for Fido’s oral health. Make sure your canine friend always has fresh, clean water. You may want to get Fido a pet fountain or an automated waterer.

Chew Toys

Chew toys help keep Fido’s bones and jaws strong. They stimulate the flow of saliva, which will help rinse food particles away. There are a few caveats here, however. First, be sure to get toys that are the right size for your furry buddy. Also, replace your pup’s toys when they start looking grimy.

Checkups!

Home care is important, but don’t forget about Fido’s dental exams. Most dogs should have their teeth checked at least once a year, starting at age one. If your canine pal is overdue for an exam, take a few minutes to schedule one today. You’ll also want to make an appointment if you notice any signs of dental trouble, such as bleeding gums, bad breath, swelling, and/or tartar buildup.

Doggy Dental Products

There are now quite a few products made with Fido’s oral health in mind. You can get your pooch kibble, treats, and/or chews that are specifically made to fight plaque and tartar. (Tip: try putting some pet toothpaste on a chew toy.) Dental flakes are another option. Oral rinses can also be very helpful in keeping your pup’s mouth healthy. Ask your vet for specific information.

Do you know or suspect that your pet has dental issues? Contact us, your local Roanoke, VA vet clinic, today!

Dog Care, General Care, General Health

Signs of Dental Issues In Dogs

Did you know that dental problems are one of the most common health issues we see in our canine patients? These issues can be very painful, and, if left unchecked, can become quite dangerous. Just like people, Fido needs good oral care. It’s also important to keep an eye out for warning signs. Here, a Roanoke, VA vet discusses signs of doggy dental issues.

Bad Breath

Fido has many charms, but minty-fresh breath is not one of them. That said, your dog shouldn’t wilt plants with his breath. If your puppy’s affectionate doggy smooches leave you gagging, dental issues may be to blame.

Swelling

Visible swelling is a definite red flag. This should be treated as a medical emergency, as oral infections can spread quickly. In some cases, they can even be fatal.

Tartar Buildup

Does your furry best friend have unsightly yellow or brown buildup on his teeth? If so, he could probably use a good cleaning. Tartar buildup often goes hand-in-hand with gum disease, which affects a whopping 80 percent of adult dogs. This is actually a very serious problem. The bacteria from gum disease can spread to Fido’s vital organs, and can contribute to major issues, like heart disease.

Bleeding Gums

Bloody gums are another warning sign. You may also see traces of blood on your pup’s dishes or toys.

Grumpiness

Toothaches generally don’t do much for anyone’s moods. Dogs are no exception here. If your pooch seems uncharacteristically cranky, he may have dental problems.

Shyness

If Fido shies away when you try to touch his face, there could be a problem with his mouth or teeth.

Reduced Interest In Play

Just like people, dogs often don’t feel very playful when they are sick or injured. If Fido has suddenly lost interest in his toys, he may be having trouble with his teeth.

Changes In Appetite

Dental problems can make it hard for Fido to chew. He may take longer eating, dribble food out of his mouth, chew on one side of his mouth, and/or start preferring softer foods.

Tips

Most of the symptoms listed above can actually be indicative of several different medical issues, including some very serious ones. Don’t take chances! Call your vet immediately if you notice any of these red flags!

Please reach out to us, your Roanoke, VA vet clinic, anytime. We are here to help!

Dog Care, General Care, General Health

5 Dental Health Tips for Dogs

February is National Pet Dental Health Month. Did you know that dental care is one of the most important aspects of your canine companion’s overall health? It’s up to you to keep your dog’s pearly whites in good shape! Learn how below from a Roanoke, VA veterinarian.

Check the Teeth

One of the best ways to maintain your dog’s oral health is to check on the teeth and gums regularly. Sit down with Fido once a week or so, and gently draw back the lips to reveal the teeth and gums. Look for redness, swelling and/or inflammation, cracked or misaligned teeth, bleeding, excessive brown-colored plaque build-up, and anything else that looks unusual. Let your vet know if you find something concerning.

Chew Toys

Provide your dog with plenty of fun chew toys; not only does this entrain your pooch for hours on end, it promotes great dental health! Chew toys give your dog’s teeth and gums a solid workout, and the action of chewing itself helps to scrape away much of the loose plaque on your dog’s outer tooth surfaces.

Brushing Sessions

There’s no better way to keep your dog’s teeth and gums in peak condition in the comfort of your own home than by brushing the teeth on a regular basis. Pick up a canine-formulated toothpaste and a pet toothbrush at your local pet supply store. Before starting to brush, simply massage your dog’s teeth and gums with your finger to acclimate him to the sensation. Now, introduce the paste so he can get used to the smell and taste. With a little patience, you’ll be able to brush the entire mouth, effectively keeping the teeth clean and the breath fresh.

Quality Diet and Fresh Water

You might not have considered your dog’s diet as a great benefit to dental health, but it is just that. When your pooch receives all of the necessary nutrients through his food, the teeth and gums stay healthy! A steady supply of fresh water is also important; it helps to flush out the mouth, removing food particles and other grime, and ultimately keeps your dog’s entire mouth healthy.

Veterinary Cleanings

Of course, there’s no substitute for professional dental cleanings by your local veterinarian. This procedure is the ultimate way to keep your dog’s teeth and gums in tip-top shape!

Is your dog due for a dental cleaning? Call your Roanoke, VA animal hospital.