February is Pet Dental Health Month

A pet's oral hygiene has a direct correlation to life expectancy.  A healthy mouth can increase a pet's life up

February is Pet Dental Health Month

to two years according to studies. February is Pet Dental Health Month, so it's the perfect time to schedule your dog's dental cleaning and exam.

"Many dogs show disease well before they show symptoms," says +Julian Peckich DVM , veterinarian at +Marietta Vet Clinic.  "Cleaning your dog's teeth can reduce the chances of developing oral disease, bad breath and tooth loss."

Let's take a look at some of the signs dental disease can display in a pet.

1. Bad breath
2. Excessive drooling
3. Changes in eating habits
4. Pawing at the mouth

Poor oral health can lead to kidney disease and heart disease.  Bacteria in a dog's mouth, just like people can buildup and enter the blood stream wreaking havoc to overall health.

Here are some of the ways to help your pet have a healthier mouth during dental health month.

1. Begin a routine of brushing your dog's teeth daily using toothpaste designed for dogs. These toothpastes have special flavoring that dogs find more appealing.   Keep initial brushing gentle and only a few seconds working up to a minute per day.

2. Many products are made targeting plaque, bacteria and tartar in the mouth for pets.  Rinses, water additives, bones for chewing and and treats especially made for controlling plaque.

3.  Feed your pet hard kibbles. Soft, moist dog food does not remove plaque.

4. Have a veterinarian decide if your pet should have its teeth cleaned.  The visit can ensure your pet does not have bothersome teeth.

February is a good month to call the veterinarian and have your pet evaluated.

Many Ways to Help Support Southeastern Guide Dogs

If you know someone that is visually impaired, a guide dog can make a difference for a

Marietta Vet Clinic Supports the Visually Impaired

more independent and happy life.  Southeastern Guide Dog's mission is to "create and nurture a partnership between a visually impaired individual and a guide dog, facilitating life's journey with mobility, independence and dignity."  

Southeastern Guide Dogs Inc, is a nonprofit organization accredited by the International Guide Dog Federation in Reading, England and a member of the Council of U.S. Dog Guide Schools.  Their main mission to partner highly trained dogs with the visually impaired individuals. Students train for 26 days in the Palmetto, Florida campus by venturing into the city streets, shopping malls and public transportation, a freeing experience. The school has provided the gift of an independence for over 30 years. All of their services are provided free of charge the recipient thanks to the generosity of people like you.

How can you help?

1. Give a one time donation or re-occurring donation.

2. Join one of their 2014 Walkathons, the biggest fundraisers of the year (www.guidedogswalkathon.org)

3.  Own a business?  Participate in the RoundUp4 GuideDogs (tm).  Participating restaurants and stores simply offer their customers the chance to round up their bill to the next dollar.

4.  Purchase a commemorative engraved brick. 

5.  Your organization, company, school or group can host a unique event with the proceeds benefiting Southeastern Guide Dogs.

6.  Donate a no longer needed car.  Southeastern Guide Dogs will even pick it up.

7.  Volunteer by raising a puppy

8.  None of these fit you, call Southeastern Guide Dogs and suggest how you can help.

Facts about Southeastern Guide Dog.

1. The 35 acre campus has provided dogs to people for over 30 years. More than 2,800 guide dog teams have existed since inception, and over 410 active guide dog partnerships exist currently.

2. All guide dogs meet rigorous medical and behavioral standards before being paired.

3. Canines can also be placed with visually impaired children ages 10-17, used as public service dogs (rescue, arson, bombs or drug detection) or act as an ambassador providing outreach for education and comfort to hospitals, nursing homes, hospices and schools.  

4.Therapy dogs are placed into military hospitals to spread cheer and encouragement.

5. Approximately 50 breeder dogs from the Labrador, Golden retriever and Labrador/Golden retriever mix.

+Marietta Vet Clinic and veterinarian  +Julian Peckich DVM support organizations that help others and animals alike.  

To contact Southeastern Guide Dogs; http://www.guidedogs.org/contact-us/locations-hours/