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| ~ MOLOSSER BREEDS ~ K9 Health Issues |
| Issue of the Month..... Brushing your K9s teeth |
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| If you have a health issue you'd like to know more about, please email us! |
| The big Question..... Is brushing your dogs teeth really good for them? The answer...YES!!! As a responsible pet owner you owe it to your K9 to take dental care very seriously. It is also best for them to receive regular dental exams by your veterinarian. It is probally smart to start doing it early on as a puppy, so they become acustomed to it. If you got your dog older or as an adult you will need to get them accustomed to you putting your fingers in their mouth. Ideally it is best to brush their teeth everyday or atleast on a regular basis. They now make toothbrushes for pets that you can purchase almost at any store in the pet section. If you can't find one you can use a childs toothbrush, a cotton swab, or a piece of gauze pad wrapped around your finger. For tooth paste, it is best to use one that is made for dogs. Tooth paste made for dogs have special ingredients that will continue to work in your dogs mouth after brushing, and are flavored to make it more appealing. |
| Periodontal Disease: Did you know that this is one of the most common health problem in a dog? Yet it is also one of the most over looked! Did you also know that about 80% of canines 3 years or older have this problem? What is Periodontal Disease? It is when the plaque on your canines teeth starts to build up and it is not removed, it will harden and turn into tarter. Then as the tartter builds, the plaque continues to accumulate and infect the gums. This infection can eventually enter the bloodstream and cause disease in the heart, liver, kidneys, and lungs! Possible signs: * Bad breath * Red or swollen gums * Discolored teeth * Difficulty in chewing and eating * Loss of teeth * Weight loss *Nasal discharge * Broken or missing teeth * Drooling * Blood in saliva * Tearing or swelling below one eye This disease cannot be reversed, but can be slowed or stopped with proper dental care. |
| Suggestions to help prevent Periodontal Disease: * Brush regularly * Get regular exams by your vet. * Feed them a well balanced diet * Provide your dog with chew toys |
| To see pictures of Periodontal Disease in a canines mouth please click below. |
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