TulsaPets Magazine November 2022

14 TulsaPets • November / December 2022 Something To Smile About Tulsa SPCA Offers Dental Services By Julie Wenger Watson | Photos courtesy of Tulsa SPCA P et ownership is incredibly rewarding, and animals are wonderful compan- ions. Depending on the species, they can provide everything from comfort and entertainment to protection and aid. In return, we owe it to them to provide for their health and welfare. As any pet owner can tell you, the cost of that care can add up — as much as $700 to $1,000 a year for food, medical care, and other expenses, according to many sources. Fortunately for pet owners in the greater Tulsa area, the Tulsa Society for the Pre- vention of Cruelty to Animals offers a wide range of affordable pet health services. Those include low-cost preventive med- icines and vaccinations, affordable spay and neuter procedures, and an economical preventive care clinic with wellness exams and treatment for minor medical issues. In 2021, the Tulsa SPCA expanded its services to include dental care for cats and dogs. Dental Health for Pets Is Important According to Dr. Cristen Thomas, Tulsa SPCA veterinarian, dental care is import- ant to an animal’s overall health, just as it is for a human. “But our pets don’t tell us when their teeth hurt or are loose,” she notes. There are many reasons for taking good care of your pet’s oral hygiene. Dental problems can cause or be caused by other health problems. For example, bad breath, or halitosis, in dogs isn’t just unpleasant; it can also be a symptom of bigger health issues that should be investigated. Severe dental disease can be painful for cats and dogs, causing them to be irritable. With advanced periodontal disease, the tissues around the tooth are destroyed, and the socket that holds the tooth in place erodes. That can make the tooth loose or even cause it to fall out. Bacteria in the plaque can enter an animal’s blood- stream, spreading to the heart, kidneys, and liver, which can damage organs and make the animal sick. It’s estimated that more than 70 percent of cats and 80 per- cent of dogs have some form of periodontal disease by the age of three In Dr. Thomas’ practice, the most com- mon issues she sees are gingivitis (inflam- mation of the gums), root abscesses, and loose or diseased teeth. Effective preven- tive care can help protect pets and catch problems such as those before they become more serious. Signs of Dental Disease Signs of dental disease in dogs can include the previously mentioned halitosis; un- usual bumps or lumps in the mouth; and red, bleeding, or inflamed gums. Changes in chewing habits, tooth loss, and drool- ing are also indications that something is amiss. Good dental care contributes to the overall health of pets. The Tulsa SPCA now offers affordable dental services for dogs and cats.