Prevention of Gum Disease

Bacterial infection of the gums and surrounding tissue is most commonly the cause of halitosis in dogs. There is a rare possibility that
an underlying disease in the absence of, or in addition to tooth/gum disease, such as kidney failure, diabetes, nasal or facial skin infections & cancers can contribute to bad breath. Also make sure your dog is not ingesting faecal matter or other undesirable substances.

Plaque is basically a colony of bacteria. Tartar occurs once the plaque becomes mineralized (hard) firmly adhering to the tooth enamel, which will then erode the tissue around the tooth. This will cause swelling, redness and pain. The gums finally separate from the
tooth leaving air pockets which ultimately trap more bacteria. This vicious cycle results in bone and tooth loss.

Effects on the whole body:  Bacteria can enter the blood stream, most commonly affecting liver, kidneys, heart and lungs. Once treatment for the gum disease is sought, it will be necessary to give the dog antibiotics prior to and after veterinary treatment to prevent the spread of bacteria through the blood stream.

Byron Dog Rescue - Rescue Dogs Byron

Prevention is easy:  Managing your dog’s oral health is as simple as brushing, providing uncooked bones and daily use of products awarded the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) seal of approval logo.

There are many products available from vets, pet food suppliers and super markets that can maintain oral health. The VOHC website will provide you with a list of recommended and endorsed products to take on your next shopping trip for dog food. Keeping the surface of the tooth clean will ensure healthy gums and daily chewing will maintain oral health.

Local dog trainers

Barco – community dog training based in the north of Byron Shire. Email barcodogs@gmail.com  Phone 0429 518 817 or 0447 975 201.

Barco is a voluntary not for profit organisation who run dog obedience classes to teach people how to be responsible dog owners. Training sessions are each Sunday morning starting at 9am at Brunswick Heads sports fields.  If you are fostering a Byron Dog Rescue dog the training is free for that dog.  For all other dog owners, once the $20 yearly registration fee is paid, the only other cost is only $5 each time you attend training.