Palmyra Animal Hospital

Many pet owners don’t realize that oral hygiene is important to pets just like it is to humans. Imagine going years without brushing your own teeth; they sure would need a cleaning!

The purpose of recognizing February as Pet Dental Health Month is to educate pet owners on the importance of keeping your dog’s or cat’s teeth healthy. However, this is an activity that requires year-round monitoring, either with brushing from home, giving special food or using another method. (There are many ways to regularly care for your pet’s teeth. Ask your vet about what would work best for your pet.)

Here are a few more facts about dental care in pets that you may not have known. These facts come from petdental.com, a great pet dental care resource.

 *   80 percent of dogs and 70 percent of cats show signs of oral disease by age 3, according to the American Veterinary Dental Society (AVDS).

 *   Periodontal disease is common among dogs, especially smaller breeds.

 *   Cats can develop resorptive lesions, which are painful. Studies have determined about 28 percent of domestic (pet) cats develop at least one of these painful lesions during their lifetime.

Throughout the month of February, we’ll share more information on why regular dental care is important and what you should do to benefit your pets’ teeth. In the meantime, ask us any questions you have on Facebook or share a picture of your pet and his or her pearly whites on our wall. If you would prefer, you can always email questions and photos to us at palonlinerx@yahoo.com.