Brush Up On Pet Dental Health (NAPSA)—Haveyou ever gone a day or two without brushing your teeth? If that thought makes you wrinkle your nose, think about going a lifetime without a toothbrush and toothpaste. Many of our beloved pets may never benefit from a good brushing. Yet daily brushing is a key component of the 3-Ds of pet dental health: Dentistry, Diet and Daily brushing. “Without proper dental care, food particles and bacteria in your pet’s mouth result in the formation of plaque and tartar, which can lead to more serious dental or systemic problems,” says Dr. Dan Carey, a veterinarian with The Jams Company. “While oral health issues are a very real concern for the country’s pets, the 3-Ds help keep our four-legged friends’ teeth clean andhealthy.” So, how do you get started on a pet dental care regimen? Call Jams for dental care information, answers to your pet dental questions and a FREE brochure (while supplies last) full of information on the 3-Ds of pet dental health. You can request the brochure by calling the Iams Consumer Care Centerat (800) 863-4267. In addition, the Pet Dental Experts at Iamsoffer these tips to help keep your pets grinning from ear to ear: Dentistry—Just like you, all dogs and cats need to have their teeth professionally cleaned to help remove tartar buildup. In fact, among the 147 million household pets in the United States, tartar buildup and gingivitis are the No. 1 and No. 2 disorders reported by veterinarians, as referenced by the University of Minnesota in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association. Consult with A recent Gallup poll found that two-thirds (66 percent) of pet owners believe their pets smile yet only onein five (22 percent) ever brushtheir pets’ teeth. your local veterinarian about your pet’s dental health. Diet—Food can makea difference. Adult Iams Dog and Cat Foods now feature Daily Dental Care. Iams Daily Dental Care™ has been shown to reducetartar buildup by up to 53 percent in dogs and 43 percent in cats. Daily brushing—Daily brushing is an often overlooked aspect of pet care. You may be surprised to knowby the age of three, dental issues—including plaque and tartar buildup—are present in approximately 80 percent of dogs and 70 percent of cats, according to the American Veterinary Dental Society. To get started, check your local pet supply store for special toothbrushes and pet toothpaste. Never use human toothpaste on yourpet. Starting today, you can do something about your pet’s dental health. Take a few simple steps and remember the 3-Ds of pet dental care: dentistry, diet and daily brushing.
