Oral care for your dog
It's best to start the habit when he is a pup but if not, it's better late than never
The American Veterinary Dental Society says that more than 80 percent of dogs show signs of periodontal disease by the age of three. Just like human beings, your dog too needs to have his teeth brushed and cleaned regularly - not too many dog lovers know this. The symptoms of gum disease in your dog include foul breath, bleeding gums and a change in behavior (he might become visibly dull).Know More Plaque on teeth occurs when bacteria from saliva sticks to the teeth surface forming a yellow colored film. In a few days' time, the plaque hardens to form tartar or calculus as it is called. As tartar accumulates, the healthy pink gum starts to look red, and swollen. This leads to painful gums, bleeding and bad breath. And worse, it often damages the jawbones and leads to loss of teeth. If left untreated, the bacteria from the mouth can enter the blood stream and damage vital organs such as heart and kidney. What To Do To prevent an infection, discourage your dog from chewing on everyday household objects and get him a specially designed toy instead. Consult your vet for a suitable brush and toothpaste for your dog. You can lightly brush your dog's teeth at least twice a week. Do not use any other toothpaste - the wrong type can cause nausea in dogs if swallowed. Start by putting a small amount of the toothpaste on your finger, and gently rub it on your dog's front teeth and gums. After some time, switch from the finger to a dog's toothbrush, one with soft, rounded bristles.
The American Veterinary Dental Society says that more than 80 percent of dogs show signs of periodontal disease by the age of three. Just like human beings, your dog too needs to have his teeth brushed and cleaned regularly - not too many dog lovers know this. The symptoms of gum disease in your dog include foul breath, bleeding gums and a change in behavior (he might become visibly dull).Know More Plaque on teeth occurs when bacteria from saliva sticks to the teeth surface forming a yellow colored film. In a few days' time, the plaque hardens to form tartar or calculus as it is called. As tartar accumulates, the healthy pink gum starts to look red, and swollen. This leads to painful gums, bleeding and bad breath. And worse, it often damages the jawbones and leads to loss of teeth. If left untreated, the bacteria from the mouth can enter the blood stream and damage vital organs such as heart and kidney. What To Do To prevent an infection, discourage your dog from chewing on everyday household objects and get him a specially designed toy instead. Consult your vet for a suitable brush and toothpaste for your dog. You can lightly brush your dog's teeth at least twice a week. Do not use any other toothpaste - the wrong type can cause nausea in dogs if swallowed. Start by putting a small amount of the toothpaste on your finger, and gently rub it on your dog's front teeth and gums. After some time, switch from the finger to a dog's toothbrush, one with soft, rounded bristles.
Source-
DR UMESH KALLAHALLI
Good Housekeeping - Jul 01,2014
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