BLOOM (TAMPA) – February is National Pet Dental Health Month—a time dedicated to raising awareness about the critical role oral health plays in our pets’ overall well-being. Lifestyle expert and devoted dog mom Anastasia Turchetta joined Gayle Guyardo, host of the globally syndicated health and wellness show Bloom, to discuss the hidden dangers of pet dental disease and share her personal journey with her famous husky, “Special Agent Gibbs.”
Gibbs’ Story: A Wake-Up Call for Pet Dental Care
Anastasia’s experience with Gibbs underscored how silent yet serious dental issues can be. After discovering a fractured tooth that required extraction, she realized how easily dental disease can go unnoticed. “It was a wake-up call,” she shared. “Dental health is just as important as any other aspect of pet care—issues can develop quietly until they become serious.”
Early Signs of Dental Disease in Pets
Pet dental disease often starts subtly, with pet parents missing early warning signs. Anastasia highlighted key symptoms to watch for:
✅ Bad breath (halitosis): Often the first indication that something is wrong.
✅ Visible tartar buildup and gum issues: Look for brownish deposits, red or swollen gums, or even bleeding.
✅ Behavioral changes: Watch for face sensitivity, head shaking, or reluctance to chew on one side.
✅ Changes in eating habits: Difficulty chewing or preferring softer foods may signal pain or discomfort.
✅ Excessive drooling or facial swelling: These can indicate a more serious infection like a tooth root abscess.
Why Early Detection Matters
Anastasia emphasized that catching dental issues early is vital to preventing more serious complications. “Even in pets that seem healthy, dental problems can arise suddenly,” she warned. “Regular monitoring helps prevent these issues from escalating.”
Steps to Protect Your Pet’s Dental Health
Anastasia shared practical tips to help pet owners maintain their furry friend’s oral health and prevent dental disease:
🦷 Schedule regular dental check-ups: Routine visits to the veterinarian can catch early signs of dental disease, offering peace of mind and proactive care.
🦷 Commit to daily oral care: Brushing your pet’s teeth, offering dental treats, or using special diets designed to promote oral health can make a significant difference.
🦷 Stay vigilant for changes: Pay close attention to subtle shifts in behavior or eating habits—these can be early indicators of dental discomfort.
Empowering Pet Owners
Through her journey with Gibbs, Anastasia has become an advocate for pet dental health. “Our pets rely on us to protect their well-being,” she said. “Being proactive with their dental care is one of the best ways we can show our love and commitment to them.”
As National Pet Dental Health Month continues, Anastasia encourages all pet owners to take these lessons to heart—because a healthy mouth means a happier, healthier pet.
For more expert insights and tips, catch Bloom with Gayle Guyardo, airing globally.
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