Australian vets urge owners to stop giving dogs bones to prevent dental issues

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Vets in Australia have warned dog owners to stop giving their dogs bones to chew on in order to prevent dental damage and diseases.

The Australian Veterinary Association (AVA) has issued the warning as part of Pet Dental Health Month, which will run throughout August.

According to Dr Christine Hawke, from the AVA’s dental health specialist group, bones are a major cause of dental damage amongst dogs; many owners give their dog a bone as a treat but chewing and biting on bones can contribute to broken and chipped teeth and damage to the gums and tongue. Bones can also increase the risk of constipation, food poisoning and blockages in the digestive system.

Dr Hawke urged dog owners to talk to their vet about alterative treats for their dog, as there are many other products out there, which do not carry health risks.

According to the AVA, around 80 percent of family pets experience dental problems and many owners do not realise that they have to care for their pet’s teeth.

Signs and symptoms for owners to look out for include bad breath, bleeding from the gums, stained teeth and swollen gums.

 

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