Dental disease is one of the most common preventable illnesses in pets, affecting more than 75% of dogs over the age of three. Infections of the teeth and gums can cause pain, loose teeth and even damage to the kidney and heart.
Common forms of dental disease
The most common form of dental disease is plaque build up, which is a soft mixture of bacteria, food and saliva under a dog’s teeth, especially near the gums. The plaque eventually hardens and becomes tartar, the second most common dental problem. Both irritate the tissue around the tooth and its root. This results in bad breath, bleeding, pain and possibly losing the tooth entirely.
Broken teeth are also common in dogs, especially with dogs that chew on hard objects such as rocks and bones. Injured or bleeding teeth require immediate veterinary care.
How to prevent
To prevent dental disease, brushing your dog’s teeth and providing plaque-reducing treats at home will help. Always check with your veterinarian before using these products and remember that treats alone will not substitute daily tooth brushing.
Your pets should also have annual dental check-ups with your veterinarian. If there is significant plaque and tartar accumulation, your veterinarian will probably recommend a dental cleaning for your dog. These preventive measures will keep your pet’s mouth healthy and free of bad breath and painful gums. It can also prevent dangerous oral infections, which can distribute bacteria to vital organs through your pet's bloodstream.
Check out Pet Healthipedia
For more information relating to other diseases, illness or accidents in your pet’s life, visit Petsecure’s Pet Healthipedia for hundreds of articles, videos and breed profiles.
With the winter months upon us it’s very tempting to stay curled up with your pet under a blanket all day. And what’s so bad about that? Our pets don’t receive any physical activity this way. We realize it may be tough to get your dog (and yourself) to go out for a walk in the bitter cold but that doesn’t mean you can’t come up with fun ways to keep your pet active indoors. Here are some great ways to do so!
Play fetch – indoors
There’s nothing wrong with your dog (or cat) chasing around a softer toy in your home. It’s a great way to keep active.
Have a play date
Know another pet parent that would love to bring their pet over and mingle? Why not invite them over for a play date? You will enjoy the conversation and your pets will enjoy the new found company.
Set up a scavenger hunt
Hiding treats around the house will encourage your pet to move around and investigate where you have hidden the tasty surprises. It’s physically and mentally stimulating.
As a responsible pet parent, keeping your pet active and both physically and mentally stimulated ensures that your pet will be happy and healthy for years to come.
Inflammation of the ear is the most common ear problem in dogs today. This affects the area between the outside opening and the eardrum, which can be irritated by infection, parasites, allergies and foreign objects.
Signs of ear problems
Signs usually begin with the dog scratching his ear or shaking his head. This can cause swelling, odor and discharge from the ear canal. If the irritation goes untreated ear hematomas are common. Dogs with floppy or hairy ears, as well as dogs that swim a lot may be predisposed to developing ear infections and ear discharge. Other pets are prone to ear problems due to anatomy, allergies or skin conditions.
Preventing the Problem is Key!
Ear problems in the most part, are highly preventable with routine cleaning. Here’s what you need to know:
If the ear infection needs medical attention, chances are prescription cream, a follow-up check up and even an antifungal therapy treatment may be needed. These costs can really add up! With Petsecure, regardless of the level of coverage you choose you are covered for accidents AND illness - this includes ear infections!
Check out Pet Healthipedia
For more information relating to other illness or accidents in your dog's life, visit Petsecure’s Pet Healthipedia for hundreds of articles, videos and breed profiles.
For more information on Petsecure pet health insurance, visit www.petsecure.com.
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