It’s National Pet Dental Awareness Month: Why Does Your Pet Need Dental Care?

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It's National Pet Dental Awareness Month: Why Does Your Pet Need Dental Care?

We know that we have to care for our own teeth or face major health problems. Many of us, however, don’t realize that our pets’ teeth require the same level of care. February is National Pet Dental Month, and Compassion Animal Hospital is celebrating by spreading awareness about the importance of caring for your pet’s teeth.

Why Is Dental Care Important for Pets?

Dogs and cats are at risk of dental disease just like people. In fact, by the time dogs and cats are three years old, they’re highly likely to have already developed some form of gum disease.
Gum disease (periodontal disease) is a bacterial infection of the gums that occurs when plaque hardens, turns into tartar, and accumulates along the surface of the teeth. This buildup creates pockets where harmful bacteria thrive.
Periodontal disease causes persistent bad breath and painful, red, swollen, receding, and bleeding gums in addition to eventual tooth loss. Left untreated, the bacteria from a gum infection can enter the bloodstream and travel throughout the body, causing organ damage and eventually leading to premature death.

How to Care for Your Pet's Teeth

Pets with the healthiest teeth and gums have a combination of at-home and professional dental care.
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At-Home Pet Dental Care

We strongly encourage pet owners to brush their pets’ teeth using special pet-friendly toothbrushes and toothpaste. If your pet simply won’t tolerate brushing, we recommend trying dental wipes that’ll help you remove some of the plaque from your pet’s teeth.
You can also provide your pet with daily dental treats, chew toys designed to promote dental health, and a dental-friendly diet.

Professional Pet Dental Appointments

While every wellness exam includes a quick look at your pet’s teeth and gums, regular pet dental appointments are essential to maintaining their oral health. During a pet dental appointment, our veterinarian will scale and polish your pet’s teeth, removing all plaque and tartar buildup. We’ll then perform a thorough examination and might also take a set of dental x-rays to determine whether there are any problems occurring below the gum line or inside the patient’s teeth.
Pet dental exams are similar to human dental appointments – except that they occur with a pet under general anesthesia for their safety and comfort. To learn more about the importance of dental care for pets or to schedule an appointment for your dog or cat, contact Compassion Animal Hospital today.

How to Care for Senior Pets

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How to Care for Senior Pets

It’s no secret that pets age faster than their two-legged, less-furry best friends (humans). They become senior pets much sooner than we do, too. Although our pets might be getting older, there’s no reason they have to lose the energetic, playful spirit of the puppy or kitten that lives inside them. With the proper care, your senior pet’s golden years can truly sparkle!

5 Tips for Taking Care of Senior Pets

1. Wellness Appointments

It’s always best to detect, diagnose, and treat illnesses in cats and dogs as soon as they arise. We recommend more frequent checkups for senior pets. With appointments scheduled every six months, we monitor our patients closely for signs of age-related disease or other health concerns.

2. Adjust Surroundings

Senior pets commonly encounter age-related mobility issues. You can make it easier for them to get around by making some accommodations in your home. Purchase elevated food and water bowls, an orthopedic pet bed, and add stairs or a ramp onto the couch or bed.

3. Be a Vigilant Observer

Sometimes, it can be tricky to tell when your pet isn’t feeling well. After all, pets have no way to tell us when they aren’t feeling well or when they’re in pain, and most pets instinctively try to mask or hide signs of illness. Senior pet owners should be aware of the signs of pain and illness in pets. Any unexplained changes in your pet’s behavior, routine, appearance, attitude, or energy level could indicate an underlying problem.

4. Feed an Age-Appropriate Diet

Senior pets have different dietary needs. Consider switching your older pet to a food that’s formulated especially for them.

5. Consider Nutritional Supplements

Some pets with age-related health problems can benefit from a variety of nutritional supplements. Talk with our veterinarian about whether vitamins could benefit your pet.

Schedule a Senior Pet Care Appointment in Woodland Park

Knowing exactly when a pet becomes a senior varies based on breed, size, and species. Generally, dogs are considered to be seniors at around six or seven years of age and cats at around age 11. If you’re caring for an older pet, we encourage you to talk with Dr. Cooper at Compassion Animal Hospital about adjusting your pet’s wellness care routine. Typically, senior pets visit the veterinarian two times a year for health screenings, physical examinations, and vaccination updates. To learn more, contact our office today.