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Last Updated: Jul 2nd, 2008 - 21:15:22 |
(NC)-In a recent survey conducted by the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA) it was found veterinarians commonly find signs of plaque and tartar in over 50% of their patients.*
This problem may seem minor but emerging science is now showing a systemic connection between good oral hygiene and the overall health of your pet.
"While many wouldn't think that plaque and tartar in their pet's mouth can cause damage in other organs, we are now learning the effect poor oral health has on the rest of the body," says Dr. Clayton MacKay, DVM, Director of Veterinary Affairs, Hill's Pet Nutrition Canada.
"We can even go so far as to use the mouth as an indicator for other potential problems that cannot be viewed externally."
To further increase understanding of this important topic, the CVMA has partnered with Hill's Pet Nutrition in launching their pet dental health awareness campaign to ensure pet owners begin to take their pets' mouths more seriously.
One of the easiest ways to maintain a pet's oral health is through nutrition. What you feed your pet can be a major contributor to the development of plaque and tartar.
Both increase the likelihood of developing gingivitis, which can turn into periodontitis, a damaging stage of infection that can set off a ripple effect in your pet's body.
Feeding specially formulated food and treats that are clinically proven to reduce gingivitis and the accumulation of plaque and tartar along with daily brushing is one weapon in the dental care arsenal.
Dental foods and treats recommended by your veterinarian can be used if plaque and tartar are already an issue, but can also become the food of choice for a general, balanced and everyday nutritionally optimal maintenance pet food.
"While daily tooth brushing is the gold standard for oral hygiene, daily use of products that retard accumulation of plaque and tartar is strongly recommended," says Dr. Colin Harvey, Director of the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) from the University of Pennsylvania. "Looking for the VOHC Accepted Seal is an easy way to know you are buying a nutritionally sound and tooth-friendly product."
The VOHC Accepted Seal identifies products that have met pre-set standards for plaque and or tartar control in dogs and cats. Now your pet can get the nutrition they need while also maintaining their smile and preventing more serious health problems down the road.
To learn more about pet dental care visit www.petdental.com. To learn more about the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) visit www.VOHC.org.
*Results from a nationwide survey conducted October 2007 by the CMVA
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