FEBRUARY IS NATIONAL PET DENTAL HEALTH MONTH DENTAL CARE: Thousand upon thousands of loving pet owners take their pets for regular checkups at the veterinarian. After this annual routine, many feel they have provided the most complete care for their pets. But studies in recent years indicate this is not enough. Veterinarians have learned that regular dental care is vitally important in ensuring pets' overall health. A mouth full of bacteria can cause serious health problems for pets in addition to tooth loss or painful gum disease, according to the American Veterinary Dental Society. Oral infections, if left untreated, may infect other organs such as the heart, liver or kidneys. Periodontal disease may cause bacteria and toxins to enter the bloodstream, carrying the infection to other parts of the animal's body. Total pet healthcare - beginning with proper oral care - is the emphasis of this Newsletter. February is National Pet Dental Month. To encourage pet owners to have their pets' teeth electronically scaled if needed, we will give a 10% discount off the anesthesia and scaling fee during February. Older pets, those over 5 years old should have a pre-anesthetic blood test to check for kidney and liver disease. The need for education is great. Oral disease is the most frequently diagnosed health problems for pets. An astounding 80% of dogs and 70% of cats show signs of oral disease by age 3. That's why we are an integral part of the National Pet Dental Month. We want to educate pet owners about the risks their pets face if oral care is not a priority. The growth of bacteria in a dog's or cat's mouth or on teeth may lead to the formation of plaque and tartar. Plaque and tartar buildup then have the potential to cause periodontal infections that can spread to other organs. PREVENTATIVE MEASURES: Feed hard or coarse foods Provide rawhides, hard rubber or nylon chew toys (for dogs only) or hard treat foods but remember that the treat foods are a source of calories and may lead to obesity if too many are given. Brush your pet's teeth periodically. We can provide you with a special enzymatic toothpaste and toothbrush developed for the teeth of cats & dogs. Professional cleaning on a regular basis is the most effective way to ensure good dental health. This Web Site!! We hope you like it. If you have any comments or ideas, please feel free to E-mail us at doc@emersonvet.com [Services] [About Us] [Tips & Info] [Contact Us] [Adopt a Pet] Design & Hosting by BLAZE inter.NET

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