If you’re like most pet owners, probably not!  Like humans, however, animals’ dental health plays a crucial role in their well-being. At Countryside Veterinary Clinic, we pay special attention to teeth to ensure proper preventive care and treat any dental issues your dog or cat may have.

Here are three ways maintaining a dental care routine for your pet will help their overall health:

• Prevention Of Serious Diseases: Issues such as periodontal disease, stomatitis, infections, and even heart disease can be prevented when you take a proactive approach to dental wellness. We perform a complete cleaning under anesthesia by using an ultrasonic scaler.  This allows us to remove that heavy, rock-like tartar and even clean under the gum line, where serious bacteria may lurk.  We will also remove broken, mobile, or infected teeth.
• A Better Temperament: When animals are in pain, especially when it’s because of dental issues, they could become irritable. If they’re suffering from potentially aggravating issues such as broken teeth, abscesses, or cysts in the mouth, pets can start acting less like themselves. This is why we always check their teeth, even if it seems like the problem may be unrelated.
• Regular Eating Habits: Pets that are experiencing pain in their mouths may stop eating to avoid feeling worse, and they may even lose their appetite. This is especially dangerous for overweight cats, as they can develop hepatitis.  Preventative dentistry will make sure they don’t suffer and they’re able to chew comfortably.  

As you can see, making sure your best friend’s teeth and gums are healthy is vital to ensuring their overall health and comfort. To have your pet examined today at Countryside Veterinary Clinic, call (304) 725-7663. You can also visit our practice’s website to read more about our range of pet wellness services.

And remember, February is our Pet Dental Month!  Get 10% off all services, medications, and goods* when your pet gets a dental on the same day.
*excluding Hill’s food products.