naturalpet
DOGGY
BREATH
by Dr. Shawn Messonnier
U
p to a stunning 80 percent of program can be 80 percent as effec-
dogs and 70 percent of cats tive as daily brushing.
over the age of three suffer
from bad breath, frequently a sign Consider herbal supplements. ~
of oral health problems. One of the Oregon grape root, rosemary, thyme
most serious offenders is periodontal and parsley work to reduce the oral
disease, a deterioration of the gums bacteria that can enter the blood-
and bones supporting the teeth. In stream and cause infection of internal
my veterinary practice, more than 90 organs, if left unchecked. All of these
percent of the pets I see from ages 1 to herbs are available in capsule form; a vet
3 years already show early symptoms of should recommend the dosage.
this infectious disease, such as yellow brown
tartar on tooth surfaces. Some also suffer from Employ chew toys. ~ Chewing helps to dis-
gingivitis, or inflammation (reddening) of the lodge odor-causing tartar and bacteria. Avoid
gums. If left untreated, the teeth can become giving pets bones, hooves and rawhide products,
loose and may need to be pulled. which are typically contaminated with chemi-
If a pet already has been diagnosed with cals; ingested, these can cause choking or
periodontal disease, twice yearly dental clean- intestinal problems. Again, an enlightened vet
ings, under anesthesia, can keep the problem
The most common
can suggest alternatives.
from escalating. I assure clients that otherwise
disease in dogs
Finally, before attempting treatment for
healthy pets generally have low risks associ- periodontal disease, remember that other
ated with anesthesia. Talking with a holistic vet
and cats is
problems, such as kidney or digestive disease,
will ensure the minimal amount of anesthetic
dental disease.
can also cause bad breath. A thorough exam
needed is used. by a holistic veterinarian will ensure proper
In addition, a few at-home measures will
Your pet’s fresh
diagnosis and treatment.
work to minimize an animal’s bad breath:
breath could
The welcome news is that clinical experi-
ence indicates that proper oral health may ex-
Try daily brushing. ~ Ask a holistic veterinar-
mean longer life
tend the life of a pet by as long as two to five
ian to prescribe a pet toothpaste or gel. Many
and lower veterinary
years. It’s another exceptionally good reason to
contain chlorhexidine, an antibacterial agent tackle both cat tuna breath and doggie breath.
that helps control odor.
dental expenses.
Shawn Messonnier, a doctor of veterinary
Apply a plaque-prevention gel. ~ Prescription products like medicine, is a national holistic pet columnist and author of
OraVet and the over-the-counter Pet Gel, made with aloe The Natural Health Bible for Dogs & Cats and Unexpected
vera, applied two to three times a week, act to repel bacteria Miracles: Hope and Holistic Healing for Pets. His radio show
and slow development of dental disease. Adding Oral Hy- airs weekly on Sirius and XM radio. Find his iPhone app
giene Solution to a pet’s daily drinking water is also an easy at
http://PawsForPeace.com. For more of his informative
preemptive plaque attack technique. A regular combined articles, visit
PetCareNaturally.com.
www.naturalawakenings-houston.com March 2010 33
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