Time For A Checkup

We’ve all heard the term ‘dog’s breath’. For some reason we’ve come to expect our furry friends to have bad breath – but the truth is if they do, there’s something wrong.

Halitosis is usually caused by bacterial by-products present in plaque, a soft material that builds up on teeth and gums, irritating gum tissue.

Tartar, a hard, calcified material, develops on top of teeth and provides a rough surface for more plaque to stick to. Untreated, the pet’s gums will become infected – this is gingivitis. Eventually, a painful condition called periodontitis sets in. By this time, all the structures around the teeth, including the bone, will be infected and teeth become loose.

Dogs and cats should have a dental check-up during their annual vaccination. Older pets will need a professional scale and polish under anaesthesia.

Root of the problem
Oral disease is the most common infection in our pets, with 80 per cent of dogs and almost as many cats having a degree of periodontal disease by the age of three. While bad breath may be the only sign noticed by pet owners initially, gums will turn red and bleed as the disease progresses. Pets’ eating habits will also change – usually they’ll develop a preference for softer foods as chewing becomes painful.

The effects of periodontal disease don’t stop at the mouth. Bacteria surrounding roots enters the bloodstream and harms other organs. Studies show dogs with severe periodontal disease have increased microscopic damage to kidneys, heart muscle and liver.

Prevent plaque
The key to managing gum disease is prevention. If teeth are cleaned frequently, plaque will not build up and gums will stay healthy. Oral health is maintained by daily hygiene, as with humans.

The gold standard of care is daily brushing. Diets and chews approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council will also help.

How to clean your pet’s teeth
This experience can be challenging for all! But if you can do it effectively, it will make a big difference. Here’s what I find works best:

• Start by getting a soft cloth, then apply something your pet likes the taste of (Vegemite or anchovy paste, for example) and gently open its mouth, rubbing the cloth on the teeth. Don’t worry about trying to clean them the first time – just getting the pet used to you opening its mouth is the aim of the step. Reward your pet with a treat.
• Over a two-week period, use the cloth to work your way around the outside of the teeth at the front and back. Give a little treat and a big cuddle as a reward for cooperation.
• Once your pet has accepted the cloth, you can change to a soft child’s toothbrush. You can also use a pet toothpaste product – never use human toothpaste as pets hate the taste, and it’s too high in foaming agents and fluoride for them. Pet toothpaste comes in a wide range of flavours including malt, chicken, beef and prawn.

Considering Getting a Pet

For many People a pet is an important part of the family. Owning a pet can be extremely rewarding and can bring hours of enjoyment, but it is important to remember that pet ownership is also a full-time responsibility which takes time, money, patience and life-long commitment.

The decision to own a pet is a very serious one that needs to be properly considered and researched.


Remember, companion animals rely almost entirely on their human partners to meet their needs and this responsibility should not be taken lightly. Your choice of pet should take into account environmental and family lifestyle issues, financial considerations and time constraints.

Purchasing a pet should never be an impulsive decision. Animal shelters receive thousands of unwanted and abandoned animals each year which are often the result of an ill-considered decision. Before deciding to become a pet owner ask yourself the following questions:

Am I prepared to love a pet for life?
The average lifespan of a dog and cat is around 12 years, with some dogs and cats living until 15 or more years of age. Your pet will need your love and care 365 days a year.

Can I afford a pet?
There are many costs involved with pet ownership. In addition to food, you must consider vaccination, micro-chipping, de-sexing, general health care, vet bills, grooming, obedience training, boarding, bedding, insurance and proper housing. The costs may vary depending on the type of animal you choose; costs associated with dog ownership can be around $500 a year. Pets are an expensive addition to the family.

Do I understand how to care for a pet?
Different animals have different needs. In most states and territories there are organisations that can advise on the specific needs of your chosen pet. An informed pet owner can provide a healthier and happier environment for their pet.

Do I have time to care for a pet?
Exercise, grooming, obedience and play are important aspects of pet ownership. Some pets will be more demanding on your time than others.

Do I live in suitable accommodation and do I have space for a pet?
A large dog will require a large backyard and adequate fencing, and a horse will require agistment at a property with fencing and supervision. Your home is a significant factor in determining whether you are suitable for pet ownership. If you live in a rented property please think carefully before committing yourself to a pet. While some landlords allow pets, many do not. Pet ownership may cause difficulties when changing rented accommodation.

Will a pet fit into my lifestyle and priorities?
Working long hours, enjoying a hectic social life and regularly taking trips away are all factors to consider before purchasing a pet. A pet will always depend on you and must be accommodated in your lifestyle. Are you prepared to make that commitment?

If you are sure that you can offer an animal a good home, you then have to decide where to purchase your pet which could include an animal shelter, a pet shop, private breeder or any place where pets are for sale.

Never purchase a pet that looks unwell, or is for sale with other animals that look unwell. Reputable breeders will provide proof of vaccinations and information on how to properly care for your pet and should be willing to take the animal back if a health problem becomes apparent within a reasonable time after purchase.

Animal shelters such as the RSPCA receive thousands of surrendered or stray animals each year. While many are rehomed, a large number are euthanased. The majority of these animals are neither old nor ill, they are simply unwanted. All animals available for adoption from the RSPCA have undergone health and temperament checks.

Being a responsible pet owner involves understanding what your pet needs and being aware of your responsibilities to the community.

Following are some basic rules:

• learn about your pet's special needs including diet, health and general care
• provide your pet with an adequate balanced diet and ensure it has access to clean, cool drinking water at all times
• regularly exercise your pet according to its needs
• train your pet using kindness and positive reinforcement
• provide appropriate housing and shelter for your pet
• when unsupervised, keep your pet safely and securely confined to your property
• to minimize boredom, provide your pet with sufficient companionship and a stimulating environment
• protect your pet's health by taking it to a vet whenever health problems arise and by ensuring all necessary vaccinations and treatments are up-to-date
• to help prevent disease and illness, ensure your pet has a clean environment
• microchip your pet and where required register it with your local council to increase the likelihood of return when lost
• de-sex your pet to prevent unwanted offspring
• groom your pet regularly
• socialise your pet with other animals and people
• teach your family, friends and children how to interact with your pet
• find suitable boarding facilities for your pet while on holidays
• respect the rights of non-pet owners by keeping your pet under control and by disposing of any droppings
• give your pet love and attention and commit to caring for it for its entire life.

Following these rules of responsible pet ownership will lead to a long and happy relationship between you and your pet.