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blog https://raisingpets.com.au/fi-the-vet-s-pet-health-blog/rss 5 Questions About Your Pet's Skin and Coat Care http://mypetstories.com.au/fi-the-vet-s-pet-health-blog/5-questions-about-your-pet-s-skin-and-coat-care/ The skin is the biggest organ of the body and is very important for your pet’s overall health. It acts as a barrier of protection. Just as you spend time feeding and exercising your pet each day, their skin and coat should be cared for also. Skin problems are very common in dogs and cats, especially during the spring and summer months. Here are five important questions about your pet’s skin and coat care.
<h3>1. How often should I bath my pet?</h3>
It is best to start bathing your puppy when it is young, so that bathing becomes a normal part of their routine. The frequency of bathing dogs depends on: the breed, the season, how active they are (so how dirty they become), if they live inside or outside and whether he/she has any skin sensitivities. A dog’s coat needs its own natural oils to remain soft and shiny, preventing it from becoming dry and brittle.
<img class="left" src="https://raisingpets.com.au/assets/Uploads/Clients/4/dog-bathing-gordon-vet.jpg" width="200" height="133"/>Bathing your dog too often can strip away the natural oils. A good rule of thumb is to only bath your dog when they are dirty or smelly. The time between baths will vary from dog to dog, as the coat of long-haired dogs becomes tangled and matted if they go too long between baths.
Cats naturally groom themselves, so do not really need a bath unless excessively dirty. This is fortunate because most cats hate water and so do not tolerate bathing! It is recommended to keep the hair trimmed short around the bottom of long haired cats to prevent occasional soiling by faeces and therefore avoid the need for a bath. 
<h3>2. What shampoo is good to use?</h3>
A shampoo designed specifically for animals is the best to use. Pet shampoos contain specific ingredients that care for the coat of dogs and cats. For example, many pet shampoos contain aloe vera and oatmeal which are gentle on the skin and maximise the amount of natural oil in their coat. This leads to a shiny, soft and healthy coat.
Pet shampoos can also relieve mild skin irritations such as dry, flaky skin. Anything more serious than that a vet should be consulted.
<h3>3. How often should I brush (groom) my pet?</h3>
<img class="right" src="https://raisingpets.com.au/assets/Uploads/Clients/4/dog-grooming-gordon-vet.jpg" width="200" height="170"/>Like bathing, grooming your dog or cat should begin from when they are a puppy or kitten so that they see it as a normal routine. It is best to groom them when they are relaxed or content, such as in the evening or after a meal.
Regular brushing removes dead hair and dirt and prevents mats and tangles from forming. Twice a week brushing is plenty for short haired dogs and cats, while long haired cats and dogs require brushing at least once a day.
<h3>4. How do I prevent fleas and ticks?</h3>
Preventing fleas and ticks is another important part of good skin care. Chewable products given every month or Topical (Spot on) liquids applied to the back of the neck are the most effective Many pets are also allergic to fleas (called Flea Allergy Dermatitis), which compounds an already annoying problem. The bite of one single flea can cause a bad skin problem.
By keeping a close eye on the health of your pet’s skin you can prevent some skin conditions from worsening. For example, in summer some dogs develop “hot spots”. These are an acute skin rash in certain breeds.
<h3>5. My pet is always scratching – what should I do?</h3>
You should take your pet to the vet for a check up if they are scratching a lot. Skin problems are very common in dogs and cats, especially during spring and summer. However, skin problems can occur all year round. Allergies are a common cause of chronic itchiness and may be triggered by a number of factors.
Just as in people, allergies can be tricky to treat and control if a pet has multiple allergies. Certain medications, shampoos and a special diet are helpful in treating skin problems and often relieve the itchiness. This improves the pet’s quality of life as they become much more comfortable.
<h3><img class="left" src="https://raisingpets.com.au/assets/Uploads/Clients/145/_resampled/resizedimage250359-Angela-Hill.png" width="150" alt="" title=""/>Author’s Bio:</h3>
Angela Hill is a <a title="visit Angela's website" href="http://gordonvet.com.au/" target="_blank">vet in the North Shore</a> area. She studied at Sydney University and today works at <a title="visit Angela's website" href="http://gordonvet.com.au/" target="_blank">Gordon Vet Hospital</a> as a Practice Manager. Thu, 03 Sep 2015 14:00:00 +1000 http://mypetstories.com.au/fi-the-vet-s-pet-health-blog/5-questions-about-your-pet-s-skin-and-coat-care/ Cats go crazy for a little nip http://mypetstories.com.au/fi-the-vet-s-pet-health-blog/cats-go-crazy-for-a-little-nip/ Have you ever tried Catnip? Don’t worry, it doesn’t mean you will be bitten! Catnip is a herb, related to the mint family and can cause an amazing behavioural reaction in cats.
Approximately 50-70% of cats will do anything to roll in, sniff, or even eat the leafy plant while others seem unaffected by it. Some cats resemble a drunken appearance, vocalise and roll around. You may notice elevated energy levels, increased affection and playfulness. Catnip is especially great to encourage and stimulate activity in lazy cats and indoor cats- give it a try! Check out a cat reacting to Catnip <a href="http://youtu.be/ls7K9Ga_TDo" target="_blank">here</a>
Test your cat’s response to Catnip by using a small amount at first. Most cats will respond by calmly purring, as well as pawing, licking, rolling in or eating the plant. Cats less than six months of age are usually not affected by catnip so be patient.
The herb, available dried or fresh, can be used to fill soft cat toys or even sprinkled on the floor (sorry about the mess in your house!). For even more fun you can purchase the plant in nurseries and grow it yourself. The fresher the herb, the better your cat's response. It's party time for your kitty!
<img class="leftAlone" src="https://raisingpets.com.au/assets/Uploads/Clients/4/Screen-Shot-2013-02-12-at-9.2.13-PM.png" width="222" height="202"/> Tue, 12 Feb 2013 21:29:14 +1100 http://mypetstories.com.au/fi-the-vet-s-pet-health-blog/cats-go-crazy-for-a-little-nip/ Pepper's story http://mypetstories.com.au/fi-the-vet-s-pet-health-blog/pepper-s-story/ Vets commonly see dogs with sore and itchy ears - especially this time of the year. Read Pepper's story to find out more about this common condition. 
Pepper's ears are burning
Pepper, the Cocker Spaniel had been shaking his head and rubbing his ears along the side of the couch. His owner’s had noticed a bad smell and were reluctant to snuggle up with him on the couch at night. Both of his ears were hot and very sore to touch.
His ears were examined with an otoscope; an instrument that shines light into the ear canal. Both canals were red and full of wax. A sample was gently collected and examined under the microscope revealing a yeast infection.
Pepper suffers from allergies and when his ears become irritated, his constant itching makes them red and sore. Yeast love warm, dark and damp conditions, and Pepper’s inflamed ears are the perfect environment for yeast to reproduce.
What to watch out for in your pet: 
• Scratching or rubbing the ears
• Head shaking
• An abnormal odour or discharge from the ear
• Pain when you manipulate the ear
• Redness and swelling of the external ear canal
Pepper went home with an ointment to settle the inflammation and kill the yeast. A week later, he came back to the clinic a much happier dog and repeat examination revealed that the medication had resolved the infection.
If your pet has sore, itchy or smelly ears, call your vet for an appointment as the sooner they start treatment the better!
<img class="left" src="https://raisingpets.com.au/assets/Uploads/Clients/4/Screen-Shot-2013-01-30-at-9.04.10-PM.png" width="144" height="100"/>
 Wed, 30 Jan 2013 20:51:06 +1100 http://mypetstories.com.au/fi-the-vet-s-pet-health-blog/pepper-s-story/ Be on your best beach behaviour! http://mypetstories.com.au/fi-the-vet-s-pet-health-blog/be-on-your-best-beach-behaviour/ Taking your pooch to the beach on a hot summer's day is a great way to relax, enjoy the sunshine and cool off. No one likes to cause a scene so don't forget your beach etiquette!
Here are some top tips:
<ul><li>Remember that not all beaches are dog friendly. Check with your local council before you go. Find out if your dog is allowed off leash</li>
</ul><ul><li>Always make sure you are in control of your dog, never let your dog bound up to strangers or annoy others</li>
</ul><ul><li>Always pick up your dog's poo - no one likes to go swimming with a 'Barker's Egg'!</li>
</ul><ul><li>Keep dogs off dunes and native vegetation areas. Shore birds such as Oystercatchers, Plovers and Terns nest along the high tide mark and will not breed if disturbed. Look out for signs warning you of sensitive nesting areas </li>
</ul><ul><li>Take care near the water, dogs that swim in the surf can easily drown if they are swept under by a wave; consider a canine friendly life jacket</li>
</ul><ul><li>Don't let your dog eat any dead fish or birds, these can be toxic if ingested (such as the puffer fish)<img class="center" src="https://raisingpets.com.au/assets/Uploads/Clients/4/Screen-Shot-2013-01-20-at-8.53.40-PM.png" width="165" height="109"/></li>
</ul> Sun, 20 Jan 2013 20:47:32 +1100 http://mypetstories.com.au/fi-the-vet-s-pet-health-blog/be-on-your-best-beach-behaviour/ Top Tips for Happy Travels http://mypetstories.com.au/fi-the-vet-s-pet-health-blog/top-tips-for-happy-travels/ If you are lucky enough to be travelling with your pet these Christmas holidays here are a few things you should think about: <img class="right" src="https://raisingpets.com.au/assets/Uploads/Clients/4/Screen-Shot-2012-12-11-at-3.37.13-PM.png" width="100" height="118"/>
<ol><li>If your pet is on medication have you got enough to last you through the holiday period? You should organise this well in advance </li>
<li>Take a copy of your pet’s health history with you including a current vaccination certificate </li>
<li>Do you have a good supply of your pet’s usual diet? Sudden changes in diet can cause tummy upsets - not something you want to deal with on a holiday! </li>
<li>Tick prevention is essential if you are visiting a paralysis tick area. <a href="http://www.avru.org/general/distrib_tick.html" target="_blank">Click here</a> to see a paralysis tick location map or ask us to help you </li>
<li>Make sure your pet is wearing an identification tag with up to date phone numbers and that microchip details are current </li>
<li>Do you have details of a veterinarian in the area you are visiting just in case your pet became sick or injured? </li>
<li>If your pet suffers from motion sickness ask your vet for the most appropriate motion sickness medication. A pheromone spray can also help reduce your pet’s anxiety on car trips </li>
<li>Never leave your pet unattended in the car. Even if it is not an extremely hot day, the temperature inside a car can reach dangerous levels in just a few minutes <img class="leftAlone" src="https://raisingpets.com.au/assets/Uploads/Clients/4/Screen-Shot-2012-12-11-at-3.37.20-PM.png" width="100" height="64"/>Happy holidays! </li>
</ol> Tue, 11 Dec 2012 15:33:59 +1100 http://mypetstories.com.au/fi-the-vet-s-pet-health-blog/top-tips-for-happy-travels/ Safety Tips For Christmas Cheer http://mypetstories.com.au/fi-the-vet-s-pet-health-blog/safety-tips-for-christmas-cheer/ When it comes to writing a Christmas list for your pet, don’t forget to keep safety at the top.<img class="right" src="https://raisingpets.com.au/assets/Uploads/Clients/4/Screen-Shot-2012-12-11-at-3.43.00-PM.png" width="68" height="100"/>
Potential dangers to watch out for:
1. Fatty foods: Sausages, left over ham and crackling are examples of foods that can cause vomiting, diarrhoea or even pancreatitis (a very painful and potentially serious condition) 
2. Cooked bones and BBQ skewers: may cause bowel blockages or perforations if ingested
3. Onions, macadamias, grapes and sultanas are all toxic: these are commonly found in foods eaten at Christmas so beware of feeding leftovers, especially the Christmas pudding!
4. Chocolate: it's highly poisonous for dogs and even a small amount of chocolate can be toxic. Read more here
5. Ribbon: wrappings can cause gut blockages if swallowed by any of our pets
6. Christmas ornaments and lights: cats, kittens and inquisitive dogs, may chew or swallow these <img class="right" src="https://raisingpets.com.au/assets/Uploads/Clients/4/Screen-Shot-2012-12-11-at-3.43.12-PM.png" width="145" height="94"/>
7. Toxic flowers: the leaves and flowers from plants of the lily (Liliaceae) family including Asian, Day, Easter, Glory, Japanese Show, Peace, Red, Rubrum, Stargaszer, Tiger and Wood lilies are highly toxic to cats and can cause kidney failure if ingested.
<a href="http://youtu.be/nn2h3_aH3vo" target="_blank">Here's a great video</a> of a cat getting up to all sorts of mischief at Christmas.
 Tue, 11 Dec 2012 14:45:22 +1100 http://mypetstories.com.au/fi-the-vet-s-pet-health-blog/safety-tips-for-christmas-cheer/ Avoiding Heat Exhaustion- top tips http://mypetstories.com.au/fi-the-vet-s-pet-health-blog/avoiding-heat-exhaustion-top-tips/ With days at the beach, ice cream in the sun and hot nights, summer is finally here. But with the warmer weather comes the risk of heat stress. <img class="right" src="https://raisingpets.com.au/assets/Uploads/Clients/4/Screen-Shot-2012-12-11-at-3.52.27-PM.png" width="76" height="100"/>
Heat stress or heat exhaustion is a common condition seen in Australia. It is more common in dogs as they have very few sweat glands for heat loss and are generally more active than cats.
The important thing to remember is that heat stress can kill your pet. ALL pets are at risk but brachycephalic dogs with a short nose (such as pugs and bulldogs), overweight pets, pets with heart or respiratory problems or those with thick, furry coats are at greater risk.
How to avoid it?? These are the golden rules!
<ul><li>You should make sure shade and cool water is available ALL DAY. On the extremely hot days, leaving your pet outside may be too dangerous- consider moving them inside. If you are finding it unbearable, imagine how your pet feels in a fur coat!</li>
<li>Never leave your pet in the car as the temperature can reach dangerous levels in just a few minutes, even on a mild day. Parking in the shade or leaving the windows partially open is not enough.</li>
<li>Only ever exercise your pet in the cool of the morning or evening (or ski exercise if it is a really hot day). \ Some pets will need to have their heavy coat shaved to provide some relief from the heat. </li>
</ul>What to do if your pet is suffering from heat stress.....
<img class="left" src="https://raisingpets.com.au/assets/Uploads/Clients/4/Screen-Shot-2012-12-11-at-3.51.27-PM.png" width="100" height="72"/>
Excessive panting and drooling, staggering and seizures are just some of the signs of heat stroke. You should seek veterinary attention immediately as heat stroke is an emergency. On your way to the vet spray your dog with cold (but not icy) water and cool them with wet towels, an electric fan or the air conditioner.
 Tue, 11 Dec 2012 14:45:21 +1100 http://mypetstories.com.au/fi-the-vet-s-pet-health-blog/avoiding-heat-exhaustion-top-tips/ Beware of Dreaded Grass Seeds This Summer http://mypetstories.com.au/fi-the-vet-s-pet-health-blog/beware-of-dreaded-grass-seeds-this-summer/ After the abundant grass growth this spring, it is bound to be a nasty grass seed season. <img class="right" src="https://raisingpets.com.au/assets/Uploads/Clients/4/Screen-Shot-2012-12-11-at-2.57.19-PM.png" width="100" height="86"/>
Unfortunately, the tip of a grass seed is pointy and very sharp and they love to bury in to your dog’s skin. A grass seed can migrate from under the paw out between the toes. If the seed does not exit, a painful abscess can lead to the need for surgery to remove the seed or remnants. It is not uncommon for your vet to remove multiple seeds from your pet's paws at once!
It is also not uncommon for a grass seed to end up in your dog’s ear canal causing intense head shaking. If you notice your dog is shaking his head or appears itchy around the ears, an examination with your vet is essential to rule out the presence of a grass seed.
Occasionally grass seeds will lodge themselves behind the eyelids - you might notice green mucky discharge and a very red a sore eye. This requires urgent veterinary attention. 
How can you avoid grass seed problems?
1. Keep your dog's fur clipped short- especially around the ears and between their toes- arrange for them to be clipped now before the groomer is booked out!
2. Feel for grass seeds between your dog's paw daily, also check around the eyes and ears and don't forget under the armpits!! 3. Consider canvas booties if your pet is out and about in high risk areas - <a href="http://www.caninespirit.com.au/master_products/118" target="_blank">click here</a> for an example 
<img class="left" src="https://raisingpets.com.au/assets/Uploads/Clients/4/Screen-Shot-2012-12-11-at-3.11.39-PM.png" width="298" height="227"/> 
 
 
Remember! Regular checks for grass seeds are essential; concentrate under the paws, between the toes, around the ears and in the armpit region. A keen eye will prevent grass seeds becoming a problem.
 
 Tue, 11 Dec 2012 14:45:05 +1100 http://mypetstories.com.au/fi-the-vet-s-pet-health-blog/beware-of-dreaded-grass-seeds-this-summer/ Gardening with your pet in mind http://mypetstories.com.au/fi-the-vet-s-pet-health-blog/gardening-with-your-pet-in-mind/ <img class="left" src="https://raisingpets.com.au/assets/Uploads/Clients/4/Screen-Shot-2012-10-22-at-9.36.30-AM.png" width="148" height="146"/>Spring is in the air and it is time to dust off the tools get out and do some gardening.
Follow these tips to make sure your garden is a happy and safe place for your best friend:
1. Provide secure perimeter fencing and consider installing an enclosure that allows access back into the house for your cat
2. Decide where your pet is allowed and stick to the rules early, dogs don't understand the difference between weeds and precious plants
3. Set aside areas for toileting or lying in the sun, away from your garden beds and plants, try a litter tray or pet loo
4. Raise beds to keep dogs off your plants
5. Avoid poisonous plants such as rhododendrons and azaleas, daffodil bulbs and daphne as well as plants that can cause skin irritation such as nettles, cactus and wandering jew for dogs. Lilies, if ingested are be poisonous to cats so it is best to avoid these too.
6. Keep bird baths and bird feeders off the ground and place a bell on your cat to protect our wildlife
7. BE AWARE: Many fertilisers are highly attractive to pets but can cause serious illness if eaten. Ingestion of Snail and Slug Bait is a common cause of death in dogs and cats. Products that claim they are ‘pet friendly' contain a bittering agent but this only act as a deterrent. Some pets will still eat these highly toxic baits so consider if these are absolutely necessary. Try a safer method, such as a deep saucer of beer that cannot be accessed by your dog but will kill the snails.
 If you think your pet may have ingested anything that may be dangerous, call your vet immediately.
For a more comprehensive list and great tips visit <a title="http://www.petnet.com.au/sharing-your-garden-your-best-friend" href="https://raisingpets.com.au/#" target="_blank">http://www.petnet.com.au/sharing-your-garden-your-best-friend</a> Mon, 22 Oct 2012 09:33:10 +1100 http://mypetstories.com.au/fi-the-vet-s-pet-health-blog/gardening-with-your-pet-in-mind/ Feeding your pet for optimum health http://mypetstories.com.au/fi-the-vet-s-pet-health-blog/new-blogentry/ <img class="leftAlone" src="https://raisingpets.com.au/assets/Uploads/Clients/4/iStock000005589044.jpg" width="165" height="110"/>Feeding a balanced commercial diet recommended by your vet is the top tip for a healthy pet. These premium foods are highly digestible and you get great value for money.
Due to their high quality ingredients and excellent quality control your pet will suffer less tummy upsets, maintain and healthy weight and a great coat and there will be less poo for you to pick up.
 Here are some other top tips for feeding your pet:
<ul><li> Keep human food and table scraps off the menu</li>
<li>Introduce a new diet over 5-7 days, gradually increasing the percentage of the new food to prevent any tummy upsets</li>
<li>To control calories measure out the quantity required, don’t just top up the bowl</li>
<li>Avoid creating a fussy dog; leave their meal down for 15-20 minutes, taking up what is not eaten and offering later</li>
<li>Cats prefer to be fed ad lib but be careful not to overfeed</li>
</ul>Puppies and kittens have different nutritional requirements to an adult dog or cat, and pets with a history of urinary tract disease or arthritis may also require a specific diet. Ask your vet for advice about the best diet for your pet. Sun, 14 Oct 2012 20:59:58 +1100 http://mypetstories.com.au/fi-the-vet-s-pet-health-blog/new-blogentry/ Why does my pet chase his tail? http://mypetstories.com.au/fi-the-vet-s-pet-health-blog/why-does-my-pet-chase-his-tail/ If you have ever watched a cat or a dog chase its own tail it can be rather amusing and perhaps even a bit concerning. This is especially the case if they’re an older pet and they have a habit of chasing their tail to excess, making them exhausted.
Also known as whirling, tail chasing is common in kittens and puppies. They think of it as a game, providing a source of amusement often when they don’t have another pet to play with.
Tail chasing is far less common in older pets and may be a physical or behavioural problem. Fleas, ticks, worms, allergies and irritated anal sacs can all lead to tail chasing in an attempt to ‘scratch the spot’ without being able to actually reach it! An examination with us will rule out these simple problems.
Tail chasing can also become a worry if your pet seems to be chasing their tail in an obsessive and compulsive manner, similar to OCD in humans. Certain breeds, such as Oriental cats seem to suffer this more than others, stress and boredom may play a role. Some animals may even manage to cause trauma to their tail in their frenzy.
If your pet is chasing its tail it is best to arrange an appointment with your vet so they can rule out any problems and put your mind at ease. Sun, 07 Oct 2012 21:48:09 +1100 http://mypetstories.com.au/fi-the-vet-s-pet-health-blog/why-does-my-pet-chase-his-tail/ Could you recognise heart disease in your dog? http://mypetstories.com.au/fi-the-vet-s-pet-health-blog/could-you-recognise-heart-disease-in-your-dog/ About 1 in 10 dogs seen by vets suffer from heart disease. Knowing the early signs of heart failure can make a big difference to your dog’s life. It means you can seek medical help from us and we can then start treatment early, achieving a better quality of life for your dog.
Heart failure affects the pumping mechanism of the heart. It is often referred to as congestive failure as it results in pooling of blood in the lungs.
The signs to look out for include:
<ul><li>Coughing, especially at night</li>
<li>Laboured or fast breathing</li>
<li>A reluctance to exercise and tiring more easily on walks</li>
<li>An enlarged abdomen</li>
<li>Weight loss or poor appetite</li>
<li>Weakness or fainting associated with exercise</li>
</ul>Without treatment, heart failure gets progressively worse, dogs become unwell and are not able to function normally. If you think your dog is showing one or more of the above signs, it is important that you make an appointment with your vet as soon as possible. Tue, 28 Aug 2012 12:54:00 +1000 http://mypetstories.com.au/fi-the-vet-s-pet-health-blog/could-you-recognise-heart-disease-in-your-dog/ A day at the dentist http://mypetstories.com.au/fi-the-vet-s-pet-health-blog/a-day-at-the-dentist/ When you take your pet in to your vet for a health check up, your vet should always lift your pet's lip and check out their pearly whites. If any of the teeth are unhealthy, a dental plan for your pet should be initiated. For many pets, this will involve a dental clean.
Vets use very similar equipment to human dentists. Unfortunately we can't ask our pets to keep their mouths open so to make sure we are able to clean all teeth and do it safely, a general anaesthetic is required.
A vibrating instrument, known as an ultrasonic scaler is used to remove any plaque that is stuck to the teeth. In some cases, bacteria may have already damaged the structures of the tooth, leading to exposure of the roots and sensitive nerves. This can cause your pet pain and lead to a tooth root abscess, so it is best your vet removes these teeth. A fractured tooth may also require extraction.
<div>
Local anaesthetic is injected around the diseased tooth and the tooth is gently removed. Sometimes, dissolvable sutures will be placed at the site. Finally, a polishing instrument and prophy paste are used to help form a protective layer over the tooth. 
Antibiotics, pain relief and a diet of soft and chunky food may be needed until the extraction sites have healed. Your pet will be happier, healthier and a lick on the face won't lead to you fainting!
<img class="center" src="https://raisingpets.com.au/assets/Uploads/Clients/4/Screen-Shot-2012-08-15-at-6.42.51-PM.png" width="145" height="95"/></div> Wed, 15 Aug 2012 18:28:27 +1000 http://mypetstories.com.au/fi-the-vet-s-pet-health-blog/a-day-at-the-dentist/ The truth about your pet's teeth http://mypetstories.com.au/fi-the-vet-s-pet-health-blog/the-truth-about-your-pet-s-teeth/ Did you know that foul smelling pet breath is not normal? Smelly breath usually reflects a diseased mouth and an astonishing 80% of dogs and cats over 2 years of age have some degree of dental disease.
Our pets are not cleaning their teeth as they once did in the wild. A good example is a pack of lions chewing on their prey, the meat and gristle from the prized catch act as a natural toothbrush. Much of the food we feed doesn't require the chewing needed to help keep teeth clean.
Dental disease is painful, can restrict eating and the bacteria in the mouth can lead to other diseases in the body. Dental disease will shorten the life of your pet. The good news is that it can be prevented or reversed in some cases.
Signs of dental disease:
<ul><li>Bad breath</li>
<li>Reddened gums - gingivitis</li>
<li>Discolouration of teeth</li>
<li>Loss of appetite</li>
<li>Drooling</li>
</ul>Here's what to do: 
If you notice any of the above signs, make an appointment to have a dental check. The earlier your vet gets to see the problem the greater the chance to take action before it becomes irreversible.
<img class="center" src="https://raisingpets.com.au/assets/Uploads/Clients/4/Screen-Shot-2012-08-14-at-6.14.36-PM.png" width="146" height="190"/> Tue, 31 Jul 2012 12:33:49 +1000 http://mypetstories.com.au/fi-the-vet-s-pet-health-blog/the-truth-about-your-pet-s-teeth/