A dog uses his mouth for many things. Among these would be to eat, to communicate with us and other animals, to gnaw, crush, and grind things. He also uses it to carry food and objects from one place to another. Needless to say, the mouth has a very significant function in your dog’s life. When you notice that your dog has bad breath, it could be a sign of a health problem that needs to be addressed right away. Periodontal Disease This is a condition brought about mostly by the accumulation of tartar in the mouth. It is a common disease that in fact, about 50-80% of dogs has it. Food particles left in the mouth after a meal will eventually decompose. As a result, bacteria will grow in numbers forming plaque and tartar. When this happens, tartar will push the gums farther from the teeth, causing them to loosen as time passes by. Loosened teeth can expose root sockets, thereby infecting it. Infection then goes to the bloodstream, and then on to the liver, kidney, and eventually, the heart. Signs of Periodontal Disease The following are tell-tale signs of the disease: 1. Change in eating habits. 2. Pawing (at the mouth) 3. Excessive drooling 4. Tenderness in the mouth 5. Oral bleeding 6. Inflammation and swelling (face, particularly around the eyes) 7. Nasal discharge 8. Sneezing 9. Bad breath Of all the common symptoms, the most obvious would be bad breath. Treatment Once you suspect your dog has periodontal disease, take him to the vet right away. He can clean your dog’s mouth and prescribe medication, possibly antibiotics. Prevention Food has something to do with it. Studies show that a diet consisting mostly of canned meals (soft food) is never a good idea. Experts agree that dry food has a lowered risk, in terms of getting this disease. Another way to prevent periodontal disease is to have dental checkups once a year. You can also give your dog herbal supplements, of which Echinacea is the most recommended. This can be in the form of mouthwash or tea. Brushing! Just like us, we can keep our dog’s mouth clean and healthy with regular brushing. You have a role to play in ensuring your dog is in the best of health. Do not wait until such time when he is already suffering from problems in his liver, kidney, and heart. Keep his mouth and body healthy.
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