3 Easy Ways to Keep Your Pet’s Teeth Healthy

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3 Easy Ways to Keep Your Pet's Teeth Healthy

Take a moment to imagine what it would be like if you never-ever brushed your teeth. Yuck, right? Well, that’s the reality for most pets every day of their lives. Unfortunately, cats and dogs usually don’t get the dental care they desperately need because their families simply don’t realize that their teeth and gums need regular care just like ours do.

During National Pet Dental Month in February, our experts at Desert Paws Mobile Veterinary Care are taking the time to educate our clients about the importance of caring for their pets’ teeth.

Why Is Dental Care So Important for Dogs and Cats?

The primary reason pets require regular dental care is to prevent periodontal disease, which is a bacterial infection of the gums. Left untreated, periodontal disease causes all sorts of health problems including:
  • Red, bleeding, and swollen gums
  • Oral pain and discomfort
  • Terrible breath
  • Discolored teeth
  • Loose teeth and tooth loss
  • Degeneration of the jaw bone
  • Systemic disease
  • Early death
By age 3, most cats and dogs will have already developed some form of periodontal disease that should be addressed right away.

3 Easy Ways to Care for Your Pet's Teeth

1. Brushing

Brushing your pet’s teeth is one of the most important things you can do between dental cleanings to prevent periodontal disease. Be sure to use a toothbrush that’s designed for a cat or dog or a special finger brush and never use human toothpaste that’s designed to spit out. Instead, pick up a special formula designed for cats and dogs at the pet store that’s safe to ingest and flavored to please their taste buds.

2. Dental Diet, Treats, and Chew Toys

You can also encourage healthy teeth and gums by giving your pet kibble, treats, and chew toys designed to help remove plaque and tartar from their pearly whites. When shopping for these, be sure to select products that are designed for your pet’s species and size.

3. Professional Dental Cleanings

During your pet’s annual examination, we will perform a thorough head to toe exam, including a dental exam. If your veterinarian is worried about the possibility of periodontal disease, they will recommend a professional dental cleaning performed at our surgical center. During this procedure, we will scale and polish your pet’s teeth to remove any plaque and tartar.
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Pet Dentistry with Our Mobile Veterinary Clinic in Tucson

At Desert Paws Mobile Veterinary Clinic, we bring your pet’s dental care to your doorstep. If your pet has never had a dental cleaning or if it has been a year since their last one, we welcome you to join us in celebrating National Pet Dental Health Month by scheduling a pet dentistry appointment for your cat or dog today.

Heartworm & Other Native Pests

Heartworm & Other Native Pests

There’s a common misconception that heartworm is not a problem in the Southwest. Heartworm is transferred to dogs through mosquito bites. With our warm weather, mosquitos pose a threat to our pets during every season. Mosquitos carrying heartworm, however, aren’t the only dangerous regional pests. Learn how you can protect your pets from heartworm and other dangers found in Tucson.

Parasites, Pests, and Other Desert Pet Dangers

Heartworm

To protect pets from heartworm, we recommend regular heartworm screening and year-round treatment with a heartworm preventative.

Colorado River Toads

Monsoon season not only increases mosquito populations, but the heavy rain also brings out Colorado River Toads. Also called Sonoran Desert Toads, these animals might appear non-threatening, but they are actually dangerous, as they excrete a powerful neurotoxin.
Symptoms of poisoning include drooling, head shaking, pawing at the face, reddened mucous membranes, trouble breathing, vomiting, diarrhea, vocalization, dilated pupils, seizures, collapse, and death. If you suspect your dog has had contact with a Colorado River Toad, seek treatment immediately.

Rattlesnakes

Rattlesnakes are common in our area, and it’s not unusual for dogs who like to explore outside to encounter them. We recommend rattlesnake avoidance training for Tucson pups, but it’s also good to know what to look for and what to do in the event of a rattlesnake bite.
Symptoms are similar to those of toxic toad poisoning, but you will also see swelling, bruising, and puncture marks. Seek emergency care. Be careful when moving your pet. They will be in extreme pain and could bite when touched.

Valley Fever

An infection caused by a soil-dwelling fungus, valley fever can infect a large group of species, including humans and cats, but it’s common in dogs because they tend to sniff and dig in the dirt. Symptoms include coughing, lethargy, and limping.

Schedule an Appointment for Your Pet Today

When your pet needs care, Desert Paws Mobile Veterinary Clinic will come to you. We’ll make sure your pet has the proper protection against heartworm and other parasites and provide you with additional advice on keeping pets safe in our desert environment.