Pet Dental Health Month between now and the end of February 2012

Many pet owners believe that their pets don’t really need professional dental care, making periodontal disease one of the most overlooked health problems pets suffer from today. Unfortunately, untreated periodontal disease can lead to infections, severe pain and tooth loss – and when they become advanced, infections can spread into the blood stream and cause heart, liver, or kidney damage. Preventive care such as annual dental cleanings at Northwest Animal Hospital, along with consistent home care, can not only keep your pet’s mouth healthy and pain free – it can actually extend their life!

The chart below shows the progression of the four stages of periodontal disease:

How do you know if your pet needs a dental cleaning?

Symptoms of periodontal disease can include bad breath, pain, and gums that are swollen and red. If you wait to see visual signs of tartar or swollen gums, it’s too late to reverse periodontal disease. Your pet will need professional veterinary care to keep the condition from worsening, but when dealing with the health of your pet’s teeth – prevention is key.

Between now and the end of February Northwest Animal  Hospital will be offering a  reduced fee for dental procedures performed for your pet.   Our knowledgeable staff and Doctor's will discuss your pet’s individualized treatment plan, as well as provide you with an estimate of what your costs will be on the day of the procedure. They can also advise you about proper home care, such as brushing your pet’s teeth and choosing the best treats and toys for dental health.