February is Pet Dental Health Month

Ever wonder why your dog or cat’s breath is so bad? Oral disease is the most frequently diagnosed health problem for dogs and cats. According to the American Veterinary Dental Society (AVDS), 80% of dogs and 70% of cats have some form of oral disease by age 3.

The most common oral problem in dogs is periodontal disease. As bacterial plaque and tartar accumulate on the teeth, the gums become red, swollen, and painful. As the disease progresses, the bacteria and their by-products begin to destroy the supporting structures of the teeth, including bone. Without proper treatment, periodontal disease causes oral pain, dysfunction, tooth loss, and systemic complications such as heart, liver, and kidney disease.

Although cats also commonly develop periodontal disease, another common dental malady is tooth resorption. This is a very painful and progressive disease. Teeth slowly dissolve and the tooth root is eventually exposed. The gums surrounding these teeth become inflamed and grow up the tooth in attempt to cover the lesion. Studies show, over 50% of all domestic cats develop this disease.

So what can you do to help prevent your pet from developing dental disease? The first step is to regularly bring your pet to the veterinarian for routine and dental examinations. You can help keep track of your animal’s pearly whites as well! Look into your pet’s mouth. Look for brown or tan tartar, red or swollen gums. Bad breath is very often a sign of dental disease. Make sure none of the teeth are broken or missing. Cat’s teeth get broken when they run into something, while dogs typically break teeth while chewing on objects such as bones, hooves, and nylon chew toys. If you see any of these signs, bring your pet to your veterinarian for a dental examination. Speak with your veterinarian about starting a dental care regimen at home. If tolerated, brushing is best but there are many other options.

Hope this information is helpful. Dr. Frank

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Who We Are

Pet Vaccination Services (PVS) serves the community by providing low cost dog and cat vaccinations while utilizing local veterinarians and veterinary technicians. We offer dog and cat vaccines in accordance with all state and local regulations.

Our focus is on veterinary preventative health care. We enjoy a strong partnership with our vendorswhich allows us to provide these services for your beloved dogs and cats at low-cost and convenient times

• Licensed
• Professional
• Convenient
• Affordable

We provide a low cost alternative for vaccination, heartworm, and flea control. An annual physical examination and relationship with your regular veterinarian is always recommended and in the best interest of your pet's health.

(right) Veterinary technician Roxanne administers Misty's first set of puppy vaccinations for new owner Reuben Rivera

We accept cash and all major credit cards.

For the safety of the pets, please bring your cats in carriers and dogs on leashes to our clinics.

Thanks and see you at the clinic!

PVS is a proud supporter of Project 4 Paws, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization.