February is Dental Health Month: Protect Your Pets Smile

It’s time to shine a spotlight on an often-overlooked aspect of pet care: dental health! The month of February is Dental Health Awareness Month. We want to remind pet owners about the importance of pet dental care to prevent pain, infection, and costly health issues later on.

Barbara's Story: A Second Chance at a Healthy Smile

Barbara, one of our recent residents at the humane society, is a sweet 10-year-old dog with a charming personality and a love for cuddles. However, when Barbara first arrived, we noticed she was experiencing difficulty eating and had bad breath. A veterinary exam confirmed she needed extensive dental care.

Barbara underwent medical treatment to restore her health and quality of life. She received care for multiple health concerns, including dental cleaning, extraction, mammary mass removal, and follow-up check-ups. The total cost for Barbara’s dental treatment is up to $3000. Today, Barbara is thriving. Her appetite is back, and she’s more playful than ever. Her story is a perfect example of how regular dental and comprehensive medical care can drastically improve a pet’s quality of life.

Why Dental Health is Important

Poor dental hygiene doesn’t just cause bad breath—it can lead to:
• Painful oral infections
• Tooth loss
• Systemic issues like kidney, liver, and heart disease

The good news? Dental disease is preventable with routine care.

Tips for Pet Dental Care at Home

1. Daily Brushing: Use a pet-specific toothbrush and toothpaste.
2. Dental Treats/Chews: These can help reduce plaque buildup. Look for products with a VOHC seal!
3. Veterinary Check-Ups: Schedule annual exams to catch issues early.
4. Water Additives: These are easy to use and can help freshen breath.

Investing in Pet Health at the HSKWSP

Part of our Better Together Capital Campaign is focused on renovations to our medical clinic to improve care for our furry residents. We’re excited to announce that these renovations will include a state-of-the-art dental suite. This dedicated space will allow us to provide more comprehensive dental care, ensuring pets like Barbara can receive the treatments they need for healthier, happier lives.

How You Can Help

We are is committed to ensuring all our residents—like Barbara—get the care they deserve. Your donations help provide life-changing dental care and other vital services for pets in need. This Dental Month, consider donating to the Better Together capital campaign to help pets start their new lives with happy, healthy smiles.

Thank you for your continued support in giving every animal their best chance at a happy, healthy future!

Keep in mind that the information shared here does not replace a professional consultation or comprehensive examination by a veterinarian for your pet.