The last thing responsible pet parents want to worry about during the summer is their pet’s health. That’s why they take precautions to make sure their pet is up-to-date on parasite prevention medication and vaccinations, and has current ID tags and all the pet supplies for the prime vacation season. However, pet parents frequently take a holiday from following an oral care plan, and that’s also important for their pet’s health.

Did you know that 80% of dogs and 70% of cats have periodontal disease by age three?  That’s a large percentage considering that good pet oral health is easy! By following an oral care plan, pet owners not only help to keep bad doggy breath away but also promote a bright smile and overall good health. An effective oral care plan consists of three parts: daily care, wellness exams and treatment as necessary, including tooth cleaning.

Daily at Home Care: To begin, examine your pet’s mouth and teeth regularly. Things to look for include plaque, tartar and any signs of periodontal disease. Indicators that point to problems are reddening of the gums, bad breath, and yellow-brown crust (tartar) along the gum line. Of course, visual exams are just the beginning. Doing these things daily can help keep your pet’s oral health from deteriorating:

1)      Brush their teeth

2)      Give a dental treat with the VOHC Seal of Acceptance

3)      Talk to your veterinarian about foods with a dental benefit

4)      Use dental wipes or gels

Your pet may spend time with a friend or family member while you’re away on summer travels. Review your oral care plan with them so that they can continue the regimen in your absence.

Wellness Exams: Pets should see their veterinarian twice a year for a wellness exam that includes an oral exam. Veterinarians can check for irregularities that may go unnoticed during at-home cleanings such as enlarged lymph nodes, swelling in your pet’s face or discoloration of the teeth, gums and tongue. And the wellness exam is the perfect opportunity to discuss with your veterinarian the oral care plan that’s right for your pet.

Dental Cleanings: Before beginning an at-home oral care plan your veterinarian may want to do a dental cleaning for a fresh start. During a dental cleaning the veterinarian will flush your pet’s teeth with a solution to kill the bacteria in the mouth and then use special ultrasonic scalers to clean the teeth above and below the gum line. After inspecting each tooth and gums for irregularities or disease, your vet may apply plaque-reducing agents to the teeth. The veterinarian may also recommend a vaccine to protect against some strains of the bacteria associated with periodontal disease.

The summer can be a busy time for everyone—especially pet parents—but making daily oral care a priority in your pet care routine is just as important daily exercise! Schedule an appointment with your veterinarian to begin outlining the plan that works best for you and your pet.