Good dental health in pets essential to overall health

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. — A Purdue University veterinarian wants people to become more aware of how poor dental care can affect other aspects of their pet’s health, especially since studies show that proper dental care can extend a pet’s life by as much as five years.

In February, several veterinary groups, including the American Veterinary Medicine Association and the American Veterinary Dental Society, observe Pets Dental Health Month.

“It’s important for all pet owners to know that pets can lead longer and healthier lives with good dental care,” says Lorraine Corriveau, wellness veterinarian in the School of Veterinary Medicine.

A recent nationwide veterinary study shows that there appears to be a strong association between the health of the pet’s mouth and the incidence of other health issues, such as heart murmurs or even infection of the lining of the heart.

“Dental care of dogs and cats is one of the most commonly overlooked areas of pet health care,” Corriveau says. “Approximately 80 percent of all dogs and cats have periodontal disease by the time they are only two years old. A recent American Animal Hospital Association report on compliance within veterinary practices showed that less than 35 percent of pets that need a dental cleaning ever receive one.” Read more