Does Your Dog Have Bad Breath? Free Dental Check-ups for Dogs in the UK
Tuesday, March 9th, 2010In the United Kingdom, March 2010 is the launch of “Oral Care Month“. Vets are teaming up with a dog food company to give free dental checks for canines. The veterinary services at Bristol University said that the purpose of these free exams was to put emphasis on the problem of gum disease in dogs. In adult dogs, gum infections are the most common problem, and it affects 80% of dogs over age three. That’s only one out of five dogs that is gum disease free! Unfortunately, only TWO PERCENT of owners employ the use of a regular oral maintenance routine for their pets.
Hopefully, Oral Care Month helps educate pet owners on how important it is to maintain regular dental care, which includes brushing daily and offering a dog chews. Both of these help to diminish the amount of plaque and tartar buildup in the oral cavity. Chews can reduce plaque buildup by up to 60%, and tartar buildup as much as 80%. Also, people will be learning what gum disease symptoms to look for in their pets, like bad breath, picky eating, and so on. Sometimes these symptoms can signify a health condition, and should not be accepted as ‘normal’.
It is said that dogs need their dental health attended to just like humans. When a dog hits age three, 80% have gum disease, which is caused by excessive tartar and plaque. So, if you have a dog and live in the UK, this is the month to take advantage of a free checkup!
