DID YOU KNOW THAT 80% OF ALL DOGS AND 70% OF ALL CATS HAVE DEVELOPED A DISEASE BY THE TIME THEY ARE 3 YEARS OLD?

THIS DISEASE IS PREVENTABLE AND TREATABLE - AND ONLY 2/3 OF ALL PET OWNERS ARE DOING ANYTHING AT ALL!

What in the world could this disease be?  Do you think you are treating your dog or cat properly?  If not treated properly, the disease can lead to heart disease, kidney insufficiency, liver failure and premature death!  Now I know I have your attention.

This disease has a number of obvious symptoms, a host of preventative options, and is part of every exam we do here at Shaver Road Animal Hospital.  Ready to improve your dog or cat's quantity and quality of life today?  All you need to do is pay close attention to his or her dental health!

February is Pet Dental Health Month across the United States.  We will be celebrating with some discounts on dental cleanings  (check out our "Current Specials page), a fun contest with a great prize, and LOTS of information for you, our wonderful clients.  We'll start with a little quiz to see your dental IQ.

1.)  By feeding your dog or cat a high quality diet, you are avoiding any dental health issues.  True or False?

2.)  A good way to prevent dental disease in your pet is to brush his or her teeth with a good quality, fluoride based toothpaste as recommended by your dentist.  True or False?

3.)  Good chewing habits can be a critical part of a home dental care program.  Which of the following are acceptable chew toys for an adult dog?  You can pick more than 1.
a.)  C.E.T. Rawhide strips
b.)  Greenies
c.)  VeggieDents
d.)  Real bones
e.)  All of the above

4.)  Gingivitis is a treatable disease.  By removing the plaque and tartar from your dog or cat's teeth, we can resolve the gingivitis.  True or False?

5.)  Signs of Stage I gingivitis include: (you may pick more than 1)
a.)  "Doggie Breath"
b.)  Sensitive gums
c.)  Red, bleeding gums
d.)  Trouble eating or chewing

6.)  Dogs and cats are very lucky - they do not have to worry about oral forms of cancer like people do.  True or False?

7.)  If your cat eats a high quality CANNED food, his or her risk of developing gingivitis and periodontal disease is higher than another cat who eats only DRY food.  True or False?

8.)  Home Dental Care Demonstrations are available at Shaver Road Animal Hospital - free of charge!  True or False?

9.)  Pets frequently get cavities, just like people.  True or False?

10.)  Dr. Bowles brushes Tugger's teeth every day.  His favorite flavor of toothpaste is peanut butter.  She also brushes Bobber's teeth every day.  He has never tried to bite her during this process.  True or False?

Over the next 4 weeks we will be using our website as well as Facebook to educate all of our clients about the risks of dental disease.  Then we will help all of you prevent the horrible illnesses that can result from an unhealthy mouth.
So, take the quiz above TODAY.  Then try again at the end of February.  I bet your answers will change!  And hopefully the "RIGHT" answer to #10 will change as well...

Happy Pet Dental Health Month!!