February is Dental Month!

Did you know that 85% of dogs and cats over the age of three have dental disease?

Most dogs and cats do not receive the daily brushings that help prevent tartar accumulation and infection. Once bacteria begins to colonize it forms plaque, which leads to tartar, gingivitis, and bad breath. From this point, additional health concerns arise.

Untreated periodontal disease can lead to compromised kidney, liver, respiratory and cardiac function. You may greatly reduce the rate at which dental disease develops by brushing your pet’s teeth on a regular basis. You should incorporate this into your young puppy or kitten’s routine. Practice opening your pet’s mouth and using a finger-brush.

Even with multiple brushings daily, people visit a dentist semi-annually for specialized evaluations and treatments. Just like humans, pets require regular professional dental cleanings. Even though routine

at-home care will lessen the frequency at which this anesthetic procedure will need to be performed, it will not eliminate bacteria and infection once it is already present. The staff at PetWell is happy to demonstrate tooth brushing techniques and advise you on canine/feline-specific oral health products. If a professional cleaning is recommended, PetWell is fully equipped with an experienced team to provide these services.


Please feel free to take advantage of the promotions offered by both Doguroo and PetWell during the National Pet Dental Month.

A word about Canine Influenza:

What is Canine Influenza?

Canine influenza is a newly emerging (last 8-10 years) infectious disease caused by a flu virus in dogs. Just like the human flu, Canine Influenza is highly contagious and 100% of dogs will get the virus if they come in contact with it.

What are the signs of Canine Influenza?

Persistent Coughing
Low-grade fever
Nasal discharge
Lack of energy
Loss of appetite

How serious is Canine Influenza?

This virus is typically mild but some cases can become quite serious. Pneumonia can occur in about 20% of cases along with a very high fever (104°-106°). A small number of dogs have succumb to the disease or complications associated with the disease. Most dogs don’t show signs of this disease until they have already been spreading the disease for one week!
Is you dog at risk for contracting Canine Influenza?

Dogs at a greater risk include dogs that:

· Came from a shelter, rescue center, breeding kennel or a pet store.
· Board regularly or go to day care
· Attend group training
· Go to grooming facilities, dog parks
· Come in contact with other dogs


At PetWell we believe that being proactive in an effort to prevent Canine Influenza is the best way to avoid an outbreak. Immunized dogs have a significantly decreased risk of contracting this disease. Furthermore, immunized dogs pose a lesser risk to the dogs that they come in contact with. We are urging you as responsible pet owners to talk to your veterinarian about this disease and determine if the Canine Influenza vaccination is right for your pet.

Thanks for reading and we hope to see you soon!

Resolution 2011

I'm going to post one blog per month! I think that that is very do-able. I think I got overwhelmed last year with PetWells' growth, my familys' growth, etc. Blogging just wasn't a priority.

Please feel free to write, email or call with topic suggestions. The first and second topic are predetermined as January will be canine influenza awareness month and February is Dental Healthcare month. Please stand by for more information on canine influenza as I'll be posting soon...

Thanks again and happy new year to everyone!

Dr B