Baby Got Bad Breath?

Most pet owners have had that moment: your dog reaches up and gives you an affectionate “kiss” … or your cat rubs her face against yours and ugh. That smell.

For many of us, it’s the first indication we have that something’s wrong with our pet’s oral health. Animals tend to be stoic about pain, so they often won’t let on when teeth or gums are causing them discomfort—but by age three, most dogs and cats have some symptoms of periodontal disease. Left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss, pain, and in later stages, serious illness.

February is National Pet Dental Health Month, created to increase awareness of the fact that just like their human companions, pets need good oral hygiene. Lack of opposable thumbs means your pet isn’t going to be flossing anytime soon, but bad breath can be banished with regular brushing (done by you) and dental cleanings (done by your vet).

To learn about how Lakewood Veterinary Center can help you start a dental health routine for your pet, give us a call at 214-826-4800.