Why Your Pet May Need to See the Dentist too!

Jun 12, 2018 | Dental, Uncategorized

Bad breath is disgusting, yet for some reason we just laugh it off in our pets. Sometimes bad breath, also known as halitosis, can affect people’s relationships with their pets. There are numerous ways to prevent and aid pets with notoriously foul mouths. The most important thing to remember is that your veterinarian needs to evaluate your pet’s mouth for the cause. Most of the time bad breath is due to dirty teeth, but can be associated with infections, cancer and metabolic diseases such as kidney disease.

Routine dental cleanings are extremely helpful in battling bad breath. Frequency of dental appointments depends on the pet. As our pets get older most need dental cleanings every year and a few pets need them every 6 months. Every 6 months may seem excessive but think of how clean and fresh your breath and teeth feel after routine dental cleanings to the dentist every 6 months.

Brushing your pet’s teeth daily with a special formulation of toothpaste for cats and dogs is considered the Gold Standard for oral hygiene. Even if you forget to brush your pet’s teeth for a few days, it is still encouraged. In fact, pets usually love the routine of getting their teeth brushed because it is extra time spent with you, and they get a treat of a meat or vanilla flavored toothpaste.

Another tool to aid with bad breath is dental chews. The most popular treats recommended by veterinarians are Greenies and CET chews. If you prefer to use another product, it is important to remember that if you cannot bend the treat in your hands do not use it. This is because products that are too hard can break and damage teeth.

There are also specially formulated dental diets that use abrasion or enzymes to help reduce plaque and tartar build up on teeth. These diets can be used as maintenance diets or as treats. Please talk to your veterinarian before using these diets. Dental diets can be purchased at your veterinarian’s office.

It is possible to reduce and eliminate bad breath from our pets. For any questions or advice on at home dental care techniques please contact your local veterinarian.

For more information, contact our team at VETSS, a Charlottesville VA urgent care animal hospital!

Planning for your Pet when Traveling

As the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions wind down and things open up, many people are taking trips again. During the pandemic there was an explosion of pet ownership. Now you may be wondering what to do with your beloved pet or how best to transport them safely. This...

A Summer Guide to Heat Stress and Heat Stroke for Dog Owners

As we get into summer and the temperature rises, it’s important to be aware of how the heat affects your pup. Please read below to recognize the signs of heat stress and know when you should seek veterinary care for your pet. I’m comfortable outside. Why is my dog so...

A Caring Guide to Planning for the Loss of Your Pet

Having pets is one of the most rewarding relationships a person can have. They provide us with humor, love, and lots of snuggles. With all pet families, however, there comes a time when we must say goodbye. Preparing to Say Goodbye to Your Pet For some, this comes...

One Shot. Four Viruses. Protect Your Dog With the DAPP Vaccine

New dog owners are often full of questions: Why does my dog chew this? Why did it eat that? One of the most important questions is, β€œWhy does Lucky need all these vaccines?” Simply put, puppies are very vulnerable to diseases. Which is why it is pretty amazing that...

Resource Topics

Protect Your Pet from Halloween Dangers

Halloween is just around the corner and with it come some important things for you to consider for the safety of your...

Fatty Holiday Foods Can Give Your Pets Pancreatitis

The holiday season is upon us and it is time for celebration! Like most pet owners, I love to include my pets in the...
Comments Box SVG iconsUsed for the like, share, comment, and reaction icons
1 week ago
VETSS

VETSS will be closed from 12 to 1:30 PM for staff training and development. Please plan your prescription pick ups accordingly and if you call the office during those hours, please feel free to leave a message and we will return your call once we reopen! ... See MoreSee Less

VETSS will be closed from 12 to 1:30 PM for staff training and development. Please plan your prescription pick ups accordingly and if you call the office during those hours, please feel free to leave a message and we will return your call once we reopen!
1 week ago
VETSS

Come join us for a day of fun!Thank you to VETSS for being a Supporting Pup Sponsor for our 11th Annual bow-WOW-walk! Your dedicated service to Charlottesville area pets and their families is incredible and we are so grateful for your generosity. Thank you, VETSS! 🐢🌟

If you're interested in becoming a sponsor for this year's event, please check out our bow-WOW-walk website at runsignup.com/Race/VA/Charlottesville/bowWOWwalk!
... See MoreSee Less

Come join us for a day of fun!
1 week ago
VETSS

Happy 1st day for Spring! β˜€οΈ ... See MoreSee Less

Happy 1st day for Spring! β˜€οΈ
Load more