On National Puppy Day, which is celebrated each year on the 23rd of March, every dog owner revels in the presence of that furry critter in your life. As a dedicated pet parent, you want to ensure a healthy, happy life for your dog, whether it is a Chihuahua or a Pitbull dog that fulfills your life. Continued studies show that at least 85 percent of canines over the age of three will suffer from a silent, fatal but preventable disease. All pet owners need to be aware of how to help and protect their Dogs live a long healthy life.
The silent killer affecting dogs is periodontal disease
Most pet owners have heard of the periodontal disease and the importance of caring for your dog’s teeth and gums, but many do not follow through to protect their pet. Studies confirm that the culprit in oral disease is bacteria that causes gum disease. Immediately after eating, the combination of food, saliva, bacteria and other particles begin to form a sticky substance along the teeth known as plaque. Without treatment, like humans who brush and floss, the bacteria affects the immune system. It also culminates with inflammation, bad breath, extreme pain for the pet, tooth loss and can get into the bloodstream. If that occurs, the condition can lead to critical issues, affecting the kidneys, lungs, and heart.
Your dog could be suffering in silence.
What studies suggest and vets recommend to protect your dog
The recommended care for your dog is daily teeth brushing just like you would for yourself, but for most people, it is a challenging and time-consuming ritual among your busy schedule. If it is hard to maintain a twice daily brushing, it is crucial to avoid the plaque and bacteria with this routine at least once or twice a week.
Other recommendations are to maintain oral exams with your veterinarian, provide your pet with a healthy, quality dry dog food along with giving your pet ample safe chew toys and special dental bones and chews. Dental chews are a great option to stimulate mechanical abrasion of the teeth and gums to remove plaque and debris. Even with these types of chews, opt for healthy varieties. Read more on the various studies regarding periodontal disease in dogs and avoid this silent disease from claiming the life of your pet.
