Between Groomings—Teeth & Gums
If your dog suffers from nasty "doggie breath" this may be a symptom of a much more serious and insidious health problem. It is estimated that 80% of dogs over the age of 3 suffer from periodontal disease which is a serious deterioration of the gums and supporting bones of the teeth. If left unchecked, bacteria can enter the bloodstream, thus causing infection or damage to vital organs such as the kidneys, lungs, heart and liver.
To avoid costly veterinary treatments, keep your dog's teeth in top shape by brushing them everyday. You can use a child's toothbrush or a finger brush designed for use on a dog's teeth, and make sure you only use toothpaste labelled for use on pets. Your toothpaste can be toxic to your dog. Beyond brushing, giving your dog rawhide chews to gnaw will also help keep his teeth and gums healthy. Should you desire it, you can also add an odorless, tasteless oral hygiene solution to your dog's drinking water. This will also help fend off the bacteria that cause periodontal disease.
Correct and regular oral health care can effectively extend the life of your dog by 2 to 5 years.
