When your four-legged furry friend gives you a big kiss, do you reciprocate with a hug? - Or does the smell of his breath knock you flat on your back leaving you in somewhat of a dazed, nauseous state?
If the latter is true it's time for a dental checkup.
Most of us groom our pets regularly; feed them the best pet foods available, exercise them daily and ensure that they get their yearly shots. But how many of us actually raise "Fido's" upper lip and look at his molars? Give it a try, but be warned- what you may see might shock you!
Eight out of ten dogs over four years of age suffer from some degree of periodontal disease. This is a condition in which bacteria attack the gum tissue causing a foul odor, yellowish brown crusts of tartar around the gum line and even pain and bleeding when your pet eats or you touch its gums.
Although certain dry foods and treats help to keep your dogs teeth clean, over a period of time bacteria will accumulate on the tooth surface and form plaque, which starts to irritate the gums. Later the plaque hardens and forms tartar, which makes the gums inflamed and painful. From this point on the gum starts to recede, eventually exposing the root of the tooth causing it to loosen.
Now the real danger is the possibility of bacteria entering the bloodstream and finding their way to the animal's heart, lungs, kidneys and liver. Many "old age" illnesses in our pets may well have started with a neglected infected tooth.
In addition to giving your dog a thorough physical examination, your veterinarian should also check your pet's teeth and gums and may recommend cleaning and polishing. This requires some form of sedation or anesthesia and your dog will usually need to take an antibiotic for about one week afterwards. Your veterinarian may also discuss daily brushing with toothpaste formulated specially for use in dogs.
In the event of more serious dental problems, you may want to have your pet examined by a board certified veterinary dentist.
Remember, your pet will look and function better and also live longer with healthy teeth and gums.
Oh-and the next time he gives you that big kiss-you won't have to hold your nose and gasp for air!
