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Preventative Dental Care
Why You Should Not Wait Until After Dental Surgery
As a veterinarian, I often encounter heartbreaking cases of pets suffering from severe dental disease. I remember numerous clients whose pets had to undergo extensive dental surgeries, including multiple tooth extractions. Watching these pets struggle through post-surgery recovery is a poignant reminder of the devastating consequences of neglected dental health.
Dental disease in pets is far more than a cosmetic issue. It's a progressive condition that can severely impact the overall health of your beloved companion. In dogs, dental disease often presents with inflamed or bleeding gums and foul-smelling breath. In cats, you might observe bad breath, red and inflamed gums, and a loss of appetite. Additionally, cats may show signs of dental disease through excessive salivation, changes in mood, and a poor-looking coat due to a lack of grooming.
Beyond bad breath and yellow teeth, dental disease can progress to periodontitis, a severe infection that damages the gums and can destroy the jawbone. This stage of dental disease is not only painful for your pet but can also lead to tooth loss and introduce harmful bacteria into the bloodstream which can result in systemic effects, potentially impacting vital organs like the heart, kidneys, and liver.
Proactive Home Care for Your Dog's Dental Health
Neglecting dental hygiene in pets can result in costly procedures and be a traumatic experience, affecting their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. While it is esssential to hold pet owners accountable for their pet's health, it's also important to recognise that assigning blame is not the answer.
Active home care should be a routine responsibility for every pet owner, and establishing a good dental routine should not be all that challenging. To help you approach this effectively, I have devised a simple 3-step plan to establish and maintain healthy dental habits for your pet.
1. Chew On A Raw Bone Daily
Let your dog chew on a meaty bone for 20 minutes a day. This not only helps clean their teeth but also satisfies their natural chewing instinct. A good rule of thumb is to give them a raw bone larger than their head to prevent guzzling and choking. Avoid cooked bones, as these can splinter and cause digestive issues. I recommend non-weight-bearing bones, such as necks, tails, and ribs, as they have a reduced risk of breaking teeth. If your dog cannot cope with raw bones, natural chews are available as a safe alternative.
2. Sprinkle Some Supplement
Dogs recovering from dental surgery may find it difficult to chew their food and tolerate a dental routine. To help with this, a good dental supplement can soothe your dog after surgery and maintain oral health.
At Shy Tiger, we offer our Soothe + Dental Natural Oral Supplement, which harnesses the power of natural ingredients to support your pet’s dental health. One of our star ingredients is Ascophyllum Nodosum, a seaweed scientifically proven to aid in dental health. Studies have shown that dogs given edible treats containing Ascophyllum Nodosum exhibit significant improvements, including reduced plaque and calculus accumulation.
Simply sprinkle the supplement into their food daily to help support, recover, and maintain their oral health.
3. Wipe On, Wipe Off
If brushing is too challenging, our Soothe + Dental Natural Toothpaste is a great option for busy pet owners and fussy dogs. You can simply wipe the paste gently on the gums to clean your pet’s teeth, and you can do this 2-3 times weekly.
The natural and gentle formula of our polish-style toothpaste, helps to clean pet's teeth and soothe their gums with minimal doses, keeping their breath fresh and free of harmful bacteria.
Prevention Is The Medicine
Prioritising dental care is not just about saving money; it’s about ensuring your pet lives a healthy, pain-free life. Whether you're helping your dog recover from dental surgery or introducing them to new daily dental habits, home care is essential for both preventing and maintaining your dog's dental health and overall well-being. By incorporating a simple routine with vet-formulated and trusted products, you can effectively manage your pet's oral health and prevent future dental issues.
Let’s work together to make dental health accessible and simple, ensuring a long and healthy life for your beloved pets.
References:
American Veterinary Dental College. (2021). Periodontal Disease.
American Animal Hospital Association. (2021). Pet Dental Care.
American Veterinary Medical Association. (2020). Pet Dental Care.
Thompson, S., Smith, L., & Jones, R. (2019). Efficacy of Ascophyllum nodosum in reducing plaque and tartar accumulation in dogs. Journal of Applied Phycology.
RSPCA New South Wales. (2023, August). National Pet Dental Health Month.
Halloween Pet Costumes
Halloween is a time for spooky decorations and creative costumes, even for our furry friends. However, dressing up pets can add stress to their lives, particularly dogs, who may find the unfamiliar clothing uncomfortable. Recognising signs of stress, like panting or avoidance, is crucial. As responsible pet parents, we implore you to consider the alternatives to ensure a safe and enjoyable Halloween for every member of your family.
Dr. Nicole's Recipe for Bone Broth
Looking for a natural way to boost your pet's health? Discover Dr. Nicole’s simple bone broth recipe, packed with nutrients to support hydration, digestion, and joint health. This easy-to-make tonic is perfect for keeping your pet happy and nourished, especially during times when they need extra care.
Canine Dental Health
Proper dental care is crucial for your dog’s overall health and well-being. Learn through our ultimate guide to canine dental health. From debunking myths to understanding the benefits of raw bones, this guide covers everything you need to know to keep your dog's teeth in top condition.
