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Dogs Need Dental Care, Too!

dog teeth

February is Pet Dental Health Month! Dental hygiene for dogs is sometimes overlooked, but dental care is just as important to your dog’s overall heath as things like healthy diet, proper exercise and routine grooming.

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Jenna's Dogs Blog

My Furry Valentine

Tuesday February 9, 2010

pug dog valentine

Valentine's Day is one of those holidays that is loved by some and loathed by others. I suppose much of it depends on your relationship status, but there are those of us who are not single and still find Valentine's Day overrated.

Of course, dogs know nothing of this holiday - to them it's just another day they hope to spend with you. Why not grant your four-legged Valentine's wish and spend the day together? You might even want to get your dog a little present.

This weekend, remember to play it safe. If your human sweetheart gives you flowers, candy, or other potential toxins, be sure to keep them out of reach. The last thing you want is a Valentine's Day trip to the animal emergency room.

Valentine's Day Ideas and Related Topics:


Photo © Reggie Casagrande/Getty Images

Dog Breed of the Week: Whippet

Wednesday February 3, 2010

whippet dog breed
I have never met a Whippet I didn't like. These energetic and jovial dogs just have a way of capturing my heart. If you think about it, they really are rather likable and versatile dogs. Neither too big nor too small, the Whippet fits in with almost any environment. The breed is also known for its excellent health and temperament.

While the Whippet is not technically a miniature Greyhound, this is exactly what the breed looks like. The two breeds are pretty similar in personality too, though I find the Whippet to be a bit more on the hyper side (not necessarily in a bad way, mind you). A first glance, the breed looks as if it could snap like a twig, but this sighthound is much sturdier than it looks. Could a Whippet be the right dog for you? Read all about the breed and decide for yourself. Love Whippets? Tell us why this breed is so wonderful.

Interview With a Veterinary Dentist
Wednesday February 3, 2010

dr brett beckman veterinary dentist
Many pet owners have never heard of the highly specialized field of veterinary dentistry. While routine dental care is the best way to prevent dental disease, serious oral complications can and will occur on some patients. In the past, when a dog had a "bad tooth" the most common treatment was just to pull it out. A basic extraction is still sometimes the right option, but many diseased teeth can actually be saved with proper attention. Enter the veterinary dentist.

Brett Beckman, DVM, FAVD, DAVDC, DAAPM is a board certified veterinary dentist at the top of his field. In his veterinary dental practices, he performs root canals, crown placement, complicated extractions, major oral surgery and much, much more. I have been fortunate enough to work directly with Dr. Beckman and learn a great deal about this fascinating field. Just in time for National Pet Dental Health Month, check out my interview with this accomplished veterinary dentist.

Photo courtesy of Dr. Brett Beckman

It's National Pet Dental Health Month

Tuesday February 2, 2010

dental dog teeth closeup

February is here, and that means it's National Pet Dental Health Month. It can be easy to overlook your dog's oral health on a day-to-day basis. This campaign is a great reminder to take care of your dog's teeth now and all year round.

Oral hygiene is an essential part of caring for your dog. Many people think "doggie breath" is inevitable. In reality, halitosis is a sign of an oral problem. Dental disease causes discomfort and can lead to loss of appetite, weight loss, and systemic diseases. Prevention is the cornerstone of canine dental health. Daily home care is essential, but dogs also need a professional cleaning about once a year (give or take depending on the dog). February is a great time to visit your vet for an oral exam and cleaning, as many offer discounts in honor of National Pet Dental Health Month. Regardless of the month, remember to keep those pearly whites sparkling.

Photo © José Carlos Cortizo Pérez on flickr

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