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February is National Pet Dental Health Month - a great reminder that your pet's oral care is key to their overall health. Schedule a professional cleaning to keep their smile bright and healthy!

How Often Does Your Pet Need a Dental Cleaning? A Vet's Guide to Oral Health

Starting the year with a new puppy or kitten? This guide covers everything new pet parents need to know - from vet visits and nutrition to training and safety - so you and your furry friend can thrive together.



First Steps for New Pet Parents: Caring for Your Puppy or Kitten in the New Year

Help your cat beat the summer heat with hydration tips, grooming advice, diet updates, parasite prevention, and mental enrichment. This seasonal guide covers everything to keep your feline happy and healthy all June long.



Essential Cat Care Tips Every Pet Parent Should Know

As pet owners, one of our greatest concerns is ensuring our furry friends are happy and healthy. Recognizing signs of pain in pets can sometimes be challenging, as they can't communicate in words like we do. However, animals do have ways of letting us know when something isn't right. Here's a guide from our team, at Copper Basin Veterinary Clinic, to help you understand if your pet might be in pain and what steps you can take to help them feel better.

Is My Pet in Pain? Recognizing the Signs and Taking Action

May is Lyme Disease Prevention Month, making it the perfect time to educate pet owners about this prevalent tick-borne illness. As the weather warms up, ticks become more active, increasing the risk of Lyme disease for pets and humans.

Lyme Disease in Pets: What Every Pet Owner Needs to Know

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February is National Pet Dental Health Month, making it the perfect time to focus on your pet’s oral health. Dental care isn’t just about keeping your furry friend’s breath fresh; it’s essential for their overall health and well-being. One of pet owners’ most common questions is: How often does my pet need a dental cleaning?Why Regular Dental Cleanings Are Important –Dental disease is one of the most common health issues in pets, affecting over 80% of dogs and 70% of cats by age three. Left untreated, dental disease can lead to pain, tooth loss, and even systemic health issues like heart and kidney problems. Professional cleanings help remove tartar, prevent gum disease, and identify potential problems early.Factors That Influence Dental Cleaning Frequency –The frequency of dental cleanings depends on several factors:<ol><li>Age: Puppies and kittens may not immediately need professional cleanings, but senior pets often require more frequent care.</li><li>Breed: Small breeds, like Chihuahuas, and flat-faced breeds, like Persian cats, are more prone to dental issues.</li><li>Diet: Pets on soft food diets tend to develop tartar more quickly than those who eat kibble or dental-specific foods.</li><li>Home Care: Regular brushing your pet’s teeth can extend the time between professional cleanings.</li></ol>General Guidelines for Dental Cleanings – <ul><li>Dogs: Most dogs benefit from professional dental cleanings once a year. However, some breeds or older dogs may require cleanings every six months.</li><li>Cats: Cats generally need annual dental cleanings unless they have a condition like gingivitis, which might necessitate more frequent visits.</li></ul>Signs Your Pet May Need a Dental Cleaning – Even if it hasn’t been a year since their last cleaning, watch for these signs:<ul><li>Bad breath (halitosis)</li><li>Discolored teeth or tartar buildup</li><li>Red, swollen, or bleeding gums</li><li>Difficulty eating or chewing</li><li>Pawing at the mouth</li></ul>Preventative Care at Home –Daily or weekly tooth brushing, dental treats, and water additives can help reduce plaque and tartar buildup. However, these measures are not a substitute for professional cleanings, which reach below the gum line to remove hidden problems.Make dental care part of your pet’s wellness routine, and they’ll thank you for a healthier, happier life.Contact Us to Schedule Your Pet’s Dental Cleaning!Your pet’s dental health is vital to their overall wellness. Regular cleanings and preventative care can help them live a longer, healthier life.Is your pet due for a dental cleaning? <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" class="link" href="https://bernardsvilleanimalhospital.com/contact/">Contact our veterinary clinic</a> today to schedule an appointment. Our experienced team will ensure your furry friend receives the best possible care.Let’s work together to keep your pet’s smile bright and their health thriving!

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How Often Does Your Pet Need a Dental Cleaning? A Vet's Guide to Oral Health

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