There will always be a need for vets. That idea, plus my huge love of animals, has led me down the path of becoming a veterinarian. I have not graduated from my course yet, but the reason behind this blog is to share my learning journey. I intend to write blog posts on subjects like the veterinarian education path, my thoughts on whether to be a general or specialist vet and how I wish to use alternative treatments like acupuncture in my practice. If you too have a love of animals and want to make this your job, then my blog will be interesting to you.
3 Signs that Your Dog Needs a Dental Appointment
One of the challenging tasks you have to undertake as a pet owner is keeping up with your pet's dental cleanings. If cleaning your dog's teeth at home proves impossible, you have an option to take them to a pet dentist for the cleanings. In this case, your responsibility is to know when the dog is due for a cleaning.
Besides cleaning, other dental issues may need the attention of a vet. But detecting these issues is not always easy. Here are a few signs to guide you on when to schedule a dog dental appointment.
1. When the Pet Has Bad Breath
An early sign that your pet needs a dental appointment is when they start having bad breath despite regular cleanings at home. Bad breath occurs when the pet doesn't receive the proper oral care. The odour results from plaque build-up on the lower surface of the teeth and between them.
Persistent bad breath even after treatment is often an indication that your pet is developing periodontal disease. At this point, it is advisable to contact a vet before it turns into a severe issue.
2. When the Dog Is Bleeding in the Mouth
Another way to tell that your dog needs dental care is when they start bleeding in the mouth. Bleeding can be caused by an oral injury, especially after chewing tough objects such as bones. However, if the bleeding keeps recurring for no apparent reason, it could indicate that your dog's gums are weak or have wounds.
Your dog could also have an abscess on the teeth, leading to bleeding each time they try to chew a hard object. The abscess signals a more serious underlying dental health condition that is developing. Booking a dental appointment with your pet dentist can go a long way in saving your pet from many complications resulting from the infection.
3. When the Dog Drools Excessively
Drooling is normal in dogs. However, too much of it is a sign that all is not well. Most times, it signals mouth pain. It can be accompanied by other symptoms such as poor chewing, refusal to eat, and dropping food from the mouth. It is best to see a vet as soon as you notice these symptoms. It could be a developing periodontal disease, which can lead to heart, liver, and kidney problems if not treated in time.
Take your dog to a competent vet immediately when you notice abnormal oral health issues. Doing this prevents the escalation of the problem and the development of additional health complications. More importantly, it keeps your dog healthy and happy.