February is Pet Dental Health Month!
February is Pet Dental Health month, and we're honoring it by reminding our community of the importance of oral health and the significant role it plays in our pet’s overall wellbeing. We ensure their daily feedings, activities, play and sleep, but it’s safe to say that not all pet parents incorporate any form of dental care into their routine. Although it’s often overlooked, their dental health is equally important as their physical health. Like us, our pets need daily upkeep to maintain good oral hygiene and to keep dental disease at bay. Additionally, just like us, the more we neglect their dental care, the more detrimental (and expensive) it becomes to correct any arising issues. On the bright side, it’s never too late to begin and we’re here to help you get started!

According to petMD.com, pet dental disease is more common than many realize, and as many as 85% of pets will have some form of dental disease by age 3.1 Additionally, periodontal disease in dogs is a progressive disease caused by bacteria in the mouth and can potentially damage the gums, bones and other supporting structures of your dog’s teeth. Because this disease lurks below the gums in many cases, visible signs of gum disease are not present until the disease is very advanced. Due to this, it’s vital to begin preventative dental care for your pet at an early age.2
So, where do you begin?
First things first, it’s essential to get your eyes and hands on your pet’s mouth. Make sure you get a wide (and comfortable) grip to see all their teeth. Once you’ve positioned yourselves, start observing your pet’s mouth for the following:
• Swollen, inflamed, red or puffy gums
• Broken or loose teeth
• Teeth discoloration, plaque or tartar build up
• Bad breath
• Pain or discomfort
If you detect any of these symptoms in your pet, it is highly recommended to take them to get examined by a professional.
If your pet is clear of any potential threats to their oral hygiene, you’re safe to begin daily treatments at home. Although routine care is the best place to begin, please keep in mind that just like us, our pet’s teeth need to be examined regularly by a licensed veterinarian to ensure they don’t detect anything non-professionals would overlook.

How to start routine dental care at home:
1. DAILY BRUSHING
Incorporate daily brushings into their routine to get the oral health train in motion! Regular teeth cleaning at home is the most powerful tactic to fight off tartar, plaque, bacteria and any other lingering germs. But, we get that it may be a challenge to squeeze it in daily. Keep in mind, a few times a week will be more effective than not doing so at all! Dental cleanings should consist of daily brushing (or every other day) at home and regular cleanings every 4-6 months.

Begin daily brushing with Radius Canine Dental Kit! This kit will get you started on your pet’s dental health journey and includes a clear recycled case, firm bristle toothbrush and USDA-certified organic canine toothpaste which contains coconut oil and whitens your dog's teeth and reduces bacteria that causes tooth decay!
2. DENTAL TREATS
We understand that some pets may struggle with consistent teeth brushing. A good way to break up the daily routine is to offer dental treats! Dental treats are specially crafted to help tartar and plaque buildup and freshen up their breath. Plus, it’s a much easier way to ensure some form of daily upkeep in their dental health routine!

Proden Plaqueoff System Dental Chews are made with 100% clinically proven and natural kelp ingredient A.N ProDen and help prevent new plaque and tartar buildup. Plus, they come in a variety of flavors specially curated for your dog’s specific size! Treat your small pup to their Peanut Butter & Banana or Vegetable flavors and your medium to large breeds to Bacon or Vegetable flavors!
3. DENTAL TOYS
Rubber chew toys can be a comfort for teething puppies, tough chewers or for massaging gums and helping remove plaque and tartar buildup on teeth. Although these toys can’t replace proper dental care altogether, it serves as a great tool to upkeep your daily efforts. Plus, dental toys are durable and built to last!

Got a heavy chewer on your hands? We’ve got the pawfect chew toy for you! The Bulletproof Pet Products' Indestructibone is durable and has a small hole on the top and bottom to add to your pup's favorite treat for an extra boost of mental stimulation.

The durable and interactive Project Hive's Bee Hive Chew Toy and Fetch Stick promote healthy gums and teeth. Plus, the soft and flexible material makes them gentle on gums and doubles as a treat dispenser!

Take your pet's dental care further with K9 GRILLZ, where your pet can receive veterinarian supervised non-anesthetic dental cleanings! Book your appointment now and they'll provide your pet with an economical, lower risk alternative to anesthetic dental cleanings.
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OPTIMIZE YOUR PET’S HEALTH AND PRIORITIZE THEIR DENTAL NEEDS AND RECEIVE 20% OFF OUR DENTAL COLLECTION!*
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Starting at home is best when beginning your pet’s dental health journey and always remember that it’s never too late to start a new (and necessary) routine. Call your local veterinarian to begin scheduling routine dental cleanings as frequently as they suggest and follow any additional instructions provided. Maintaining your pet’s dental health can significantly deter future health and oral problems. Improve their quality of life and begin prioritizing their dental care like you do your own now!
Have you joined our loyalty program yet? Before you start shopping for your pet’s dental needs, sign up to be a MIND BODY BOWL Benefits member and receive 15% off your first purchase and double points on all dental product purchases this month!!*
Plus, members receive exclusive benefits including:
• 5 points for every $1 spent
• Early access to community events
• Double points on all food purchases
• Refer a fur-iend rewards + more!
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*Offer valid through February 28, 2023. While supplies last. Cannot be combined with any other coupons, promo codes or subscription orders. Limit one promo code per online order. **By signing up for MIND BODY BOWL Benefits, you are agreeing to our Terms of Service. See MIND BODY BOWL Benefits FAQ page for promotion details. Contact help@healthyspot.com with additional questions.
References
- Zizka, L. (2022, June 7). Pet Dental Insurance 101. PetMD. Retrieved February 2, 2023, from https://www.petmd.com/general-health/pet-dental-insurance-101
- McCalley, E. (2021, February 8). Periodontal Disease in Dogs: How to Treat Dog Gum Disease. PetMD. Retrieved February 2, 2023, from https://www.petmd.com/dog/conditions/mouth/c_multi_periodontal_disease