3 ways to improve your pet’s dental health

Dentalhygiene is important— and if you’ve ever experienced dental health challenges, you know that dental pain can take a serious toll on your quality of life.

The same is true for our pets. Dental problems can cause (or be caused by) hidden internal problems, so caring for your pet’s mouth is a chief part of their overall wellness.

February is Pet Dental Health Month, which means now is a great time to prioritize your pet’s dental hygiene! Signs that it’s time to take your pet in to see a veterinarian for a dental exam include bad breath, broken or discolored teeth, tartar buildup, abnormal chewing or drooling, a swollen mouth and/or reduced appetite.

In December, a 10-year-old cat named Greybeard arrived at Roice-Hurst Humane Society in rough shape. He struggled to eat and spent most of the day curled up in his kennel. A veterinary exam revealed that he had profound tooth loss and stomatitis—a painful autoimmune condition that causes inflammation of the gums.

After undergoing a dental procedure to remove his remaining teeth, Greybeard’s relief was transformative. Now, he’s a happy, loving, pain-free senior kicking off a new chapter in life.

Here are three tips for improving your pet’s dental health:

1. Schedule an annual checkup. Greybeard’s poor mouth condition could only be addressed after a dental exam. Your pet’s veterinarian will examine their mouth and let you know when it’s time for an in-depth

Perspective

BY JENNA KRETSCHMAN

dental cleaning. Dental cleanings are performed under anesthesia and include scaling, polishing and x-rays of your pet’s mouth to address any issues under the gums.

2. Brush your pet’s teeth. Veterinarians recommend brushing your pet’s teeth daily. Even weekly brushing goes a long way between professional cleanings. To get started, purchase pet-friendly toothpaste (do not use human toothpaste!) and a pet toothbrush. Begin by allowing your pet to lick the toothpaste from your finger, then slowly introduce the toothbrush over time.

3. Give your pet a healthy diet. Be sure your pet receives the nutrition they need with appropriate food for their age, size and medical conditions. Check with your veterinarian for specific recommendations tailored to your pet. You can also provide dental treats and dental chew toys for your pet that are designed to scrape tartar from the teeth and promote salivation, which protects against tooth decay.

This month, prioritize your pet’s dental health and your pet will thank you with kisses that don’t smell so bad! ■

Living Healthy

Submitted by Jane Diamond

A middle-aged couple died and went to heaven at the same time.

When they arrived, St. Peter showed them to a beautiful mansion and told him it was all theirs.

In awe but still skeptical, the man said, “What about the electric bill?”

St. Peter said, “It’s all paid.”

Then he showed them to a lake with their own personal boat. The man said, “Well, who’s going to pay for the gas for the boat?”

St. Peter said, “It’s all paid for.”

Then he took them to a golf course and the man said, “But who is going to pay for the green fee?”

St. Peter said, “It’s all paid.”

The man took his hat off and threw it on the ground and said to his wife, “We would have been here a lot sooner if you hadn’t fed us all those vitamins!”

Gray Marriage Priorities

Submitted by Lloyd Mason

A senior citizen said to his 80-yearold buddy, “So I hear you’re getting married!”

“Yep!”

“Do I know her?”

“Nope!”

“Is she good looking?”

“Not really.”

“Is she a good cook?”

“Naw, she can’t cook too well.”

“Does she have lots of money?”

“Nope! Poor as a church mouse.”

“Well then, is she good in bed?”

“I don’t know.”

“Why in the world do you want to marry her then?”

“Because she can still drive!”

Altar Boy

Submitted by Ben Kuckel

An altar boy comes to confessional and says, “Bless me Father, for

I have sinned. I have been with a loose girl.”

The priest asks, “Is that you, little Joey Pagano?”

“Yes, Father, it is.”

“And who was the girl you were with?”

“I can’t tell you, Father. I don’t want to ruin her reputation.”

“Well, Joey, I’m sure to find out her name sooner or later so you may as well tell me now. Was it Tina Minetti?”

“I cannot say.”

“Was it Teresa Mazzarelli?”

“I’ll never tell.”

“Was it Nina Capelli?”

“I’m sorry, but I cannot name her.”

“Was it Cathy Piriano?”

“My lips are sealed.”

“Was it Rosa DiAngelo, then?”

“Please, Father. I cannot tell you.”

The priest sighs in frustration. “You’re very tight lipped, and I admire that. But you’ve sinned and have to atone. You cannot be an altar boy now for four months. Now you go and behave yourself.”

Joey walks back to his pew, and