FISHERS, Ind., Aug. 11, 2013 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Bridgeview Animal Hospital in Fishers, IN is now offering a pet dental cleaning special for as low as $99.95. The animal hospital announced the dental special in conjunction with their new pet dental care campaign. According to veterinarian Dr. Mike Graves, many pet owners do not realize that regular dental cleanings are an important part of pet wellness care. Regular dental cleanings help reduce the risk for periodontal disease, tooth loss and bacterial infections.
Veterinarians at Bridgeview Animal Hospital are raising awareness about the importance of pet dental care. As part of the veterinary hospital's commitment to making dental care affordable and accessible, the hospital is now offering discounted dental care packages. These packages include a dental exam, cleaning and polishing. Packages are $99.95 for dogs and cats under 30 pounds or $129.95 for dogs over 30 pounds.
"Periodontal disease is one of the most common health problems affecting pets," said Dr. Graves. "In fact, the majority of pets aged three or older are already suffering from tartar buildup and gum degeneration. Regular dental cleanings are the best way to address this tartar buildup before a pet's health is compromised. We hope our new veterinary dental care packages will encourage pet owners to proactively take control of their pets' oral health."
Dr. Graves and the veterinarians at Bridgeview Animal Hospital recommend a yearly dental cleaning for pets. During this cleaning, veterinarians will scrape away plaque and tartar build up from a pet's gum line.
"Removing tartar build up is essential to preventing gum problems," said Dr. Graves. "Over time, tartar will push away a pet's gums, creating pockets that are highly susceptible to bacterial infections."
The veterinarian warns that if an infection is not caught early, it can enter the bloodstream and become very difficult to treat. Once a bacterial infection is in the bloodstream, a pet's internal organs such as the kidneys and liver may be affected. Plaque and tartar buildup also leads to sore gums and tooth loss, which makes it painful for pets to eat, drink or hold anything in their mouths.
"Poor oral hygiene can lead to a host of health problems," said Dr. Graves. "The easiest, most effective way to prevent these problems is with regular veterinary cleanings."
Dr. Graves also recommends that pet owners practice oral hygiene with their pets at home. This can be done by teeth brushing, using oral rinses or water additives, and specialized dog treats. Doing so will help to remove food particles and lessen plaque buildup.
"Together, at-home oral hygiene and in-office cleanings are essential to good oral care," said Dr. Graves.
In addition to dental care, Bridgeview Animal Hospital's pet services include wellness exams, vaccinations, pet surgery, emergency care, and full-service grooming.
Pet owners who would like to learn more about pet dental care or schedule a veterinary appointment may do so by visiting http://www.bridgeviewvet.com.