Vet Practice Launches Campaign For Preventative Dental Care With Offer Of Cut-price Dental Care For Dogs

The Prince Bishop Veterinary Hospital is offering pet owners half price scale and polish treatments for canines as studies show that by age three, 80% of dogs exhibit signs of gum disease. Preventative treatment: A Spaniel having her teeth examined at the practice. The veterinary practice in Leadgate near Consett is finding that cases of poor oral hygiene leading to emergency extractions are escalating as dental care is now one of the most neglected pet health needs, particularly in these credit crunch times. Periodontal - or severe gum disease - is very common in older dogs and causes bad breath, and often serious infections. Periodontitis and other gum diseases have now been linked in humans to conditions such as diabetes, immune problems, anaemia, respiratory disease, liver and cholesterol problems and rheumatoid arthritis, as well as stroke and heart disease. There is much anecdotal evidence to suggest that the link is as strong in animals. Just short of 100% of all cases of bad breath in dogs are caused by periodontal disease, resulting from tartar build-up and gum infections. A dental examination can determine whether a pet needs preventive dental care such as scaling, polishing, and antibiotics. Jacqui Molyneux, the practice’s Principal Vet, explained: “Periodontal disease is the most frequent problem in small animal veterinary practices such as ours. In severe cases and when regular tooth brushing is not maintained, either selective or total extraction will be required. “I cannot stress enough the need for preventive dental care, as aside from ensuring that the animal does not suffer unnecessarily and has a shortened life expectancy, it will save the owner money in the longer-term.” For further information, please call The Prince Bishop Veterinary Hospital on 01207 590 340 or visit www.princebishopvets.co.uk.

More from

• IVC Evidensia assembles expert team to run new £10m referral hospital
• Home delivery service can increase pet health plan sign-ups by 25%
• Research reveals vital clues to help fight anthelmintic resistance
• Lifetime Achievement Award recognises Harrogate vet’s dedication to improving the health and welfare of rabbits
• Bake sale at Leicestershire vet practice for good cause