Bad Breath Means Bad Health
Feb 7th, 2010 | By Hespeler Animal Hospital | Section: Community, Environment & HealthDid you know that neglecting your pet’s mouth can shorten its life?
It’s true!
Studies tell us that dogs and cats that have regular dental cleanings live 2-3 years longer than those that don’t. It makes sense, if you think about it.
Gingivitis (infection in the gums) and periodontal disease (infection in the bone around tooth roots) are caused by bacteria hiding in plaque and calculus. These bacteria can spread via the blood to your pets’ liver, kidneys and heart. There, they can multiply and cause organ damage.
Pets with bad teeth don’t have the best quality of life. Their teeth hurt when they chew their food, or when they lie on their sides. Walking around with a mouth full of pus and bacteria is not only gross, but it’s also bad for you.
Pets age 6-7 years for every human year. If they have their teeth cleaned every 5 years, it’s the same as you and I neglecting our teeth for 35 years!
Having your pets’ teeth cleaned is not a cosmetic procedure. It helps prevent oral discomfort, pain and suffering, and it helps your pet stay healthy.
Please make sure your dog and cat gets a physical exam at least once yearly. Senior pets should have check-ups every 6 months. Look inside your pet’s mouth on a regular basis, and call your vet if you notice brown teeth, red gums, or bad breath.
Regular dental cleanings will not only improve your animal’s breath, but also help it live longer. If you’ve been delaying, please call and book that appointment today!
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When my dog ison his own while his master is occupied, there is nothing better to make his breath kissing fresh like a big goose turd. After a few runs around the dog park and about 15 close up butt smells with his running mates his breath gets a little more funky. The puddle he just drank from was just used by a dozen seagulls to take a bath in and I wonder is it okay to let him give me a lick? My dog has never had kissing fresh breath. But I know he is healthy. He likes to roll in dead animals and eats the stinkiest stuff but throws up if it disagrees with his digestion. I always thought he was eating the seeds from the bird feeder on the ground but found out it was the finches poop he was so intense on gathering. My dog will never have the breath like a fresh spring breeze, but one spoon of peanut butter and its kissing fresh again untill he can find some new stinky substances to eat before he is caught in the act. The best thing is he does like Crest Toothpaste and has been cavity free with gums to match. He just has bad breath to impress his friends.