Did you know that dental issues are very common among our canine companions? These painful problems are no more fun for people than they are for us. Fido of course can’t call to make himself an appointment, but our veterinary dentistry services can help keep his teeth and gums healthy. You’ll want to keep an eye out for potential issues. A local vet lists some things to watch for below.
Bad Breath
Fido’s not exactly known for having minty-fresh breath. However, if your furry friend’s kisses could wilt flowers, then he may have something more serious going on.
Tartar
Visible tartar buildup goes hand-in-hand (or paw-in-paw) with gum disease. If Fido has gunk on his choppers, he likely would benefit from a deep cleaning. This isn’t a cosmetic issue, though of course your pet’s teeth will look better after. Gum disease can contribute to some very dangerous health conditions, such as heart disease.
Bloody Streaks
Bloody smears on your pup’s toys or dishes are another warning sign to look for. Keep an eye on your canine companion’s bowls and chew toys.
Reduced Interest In Play
Dogs are very playful, which is one of the many, many things we love about them. However, dental troubles can really put a damper on Fido’s doggy antics. If your furry pal doesn’t seem interested in games like Fetch or Tug O War lately, dental issues could be to blame.
Changes In Eating Habits
Dental issues can make it hard to chew. This is true for both dogs and people. Fido may dribble food out of his mouth, take longer eating, or start showing a clear preference for softer foods. In severe cases, he may not eat enough. This can cause malnutrition, which in turn can cause a whole host of other problems, such as a weakened immune system that makes your dog more susceptible to illnesses like canine flu.
Swelling
If you ever see swelling around your dog’s face or mouth, call your vet immediately. This can be indicative of a serious infection. Mouth infections are extremely dangerous, because they’re so close to the brain.
Behavioral Changes
Having a toothache isn’t much of a mood booster. Fido may act grumpy or withdrawn, and he may shy away from having his mouth touched.
It’s worth pointing out that many of these red flags can be indicative of many different health issues. If you notice any of them, contact your vet immediately.
Please contact us, your local animal clinic in North Miami, FL with any questions or concerns about your dog’s dental health. We’re here to help!
