Protect Your Pet's Smile

Protect Your Pet's Smile


Of all dogs 2 years old or more, 80% have some form of dental disease, and veterinarians say that periodontal disease is the number one diagnosed condition in pets today.  The numbers are comparable for cats as well

By: David G. Beauchamp, DVM


Dental care of dogs and cats is one of the most commonly overlooked areas of pet health care.  Approximately 80% of all dogs and cats have periodontal disease by the time they are only two years old.  Dental disease affects much more than fresh breath.  It frequently leads to more serious health problems such as liver, kidney and heart disease.  That’s why more veterinarians are not just treating dental disease, but taking new steps to prevent it.  A major step in this process is encouraging owners to participate in their pet’s oral health at home.

Periodontal disease in pets is the same as it is in people. It’s a sneaky and insidious process that begins when bacteria in the mouth attach to the teeth and produce a film called “plaque”.  When the bacteria die, they are calcified into “calculus” commonly known as tartar which makes a rough surface for even more bacteria to stick to.  In the beginning, plaque is soft and can easily be removed by brushing or chewing on appropriate toys or treats.  But if left to spread, plaque leads to gum inflammation (called “gingivitis”) and infection.  Eventually, the infection spreads to the tooth root and even the jaw bone itself – causing pain and tooth loss.

The American Animal Hospital Association recently devised new guidelines for veterinarians in order to highlight the need for more professional oral hygiene care for pets. The organization stressed the necessity of going beyond the traditional “scraping the surface” of routine dental cleanings, known as “prophies”.  Veterinarians are encouraged to teach owners the importance of good oral hygiene when puppies and kittens are only a few months old in order to begin a lifetime of healthy benefits that go far beyond sweet smelling kisses.

Unfortunately, good oral health care hasn’t been an important part of the veterinary school curriculum until recent years.  Many veterinarians simply were not taught the serious health consequences of untreated dental disease.  But research proves that unchecked dental disease can be the root of other problems.  Seminars and workshops at the veterinary conferences are filled to capacity by veterinarians learning good preventative dentistry and oral surgery. 

A recent roundtable discussion between veterinary dental experts shed even more light on the impact that good preventative dentistry plays in a pet’s life.  They strongly recommend daily dental care for pets and twice yearly mouth exams beginning when puppies and kittens are two months old.  And while that schedule may seem too complicated for some pet owners, dental specialists, veterinary supply companies have developed products that will help pet busy owners put some bite into home dental care for their pets.

A recent development that goes beyond good veterinary and at-home care, is the actual prevention of plaque using a barrier sealant gel.  This system is the first method used by veterinarians to create a physical barrier that reduces bacterial plaque adhesion above and under the gum lines.  It is applied at home only once a week after the initial hospital application. 

It’s important for all pet owners to know that pets can lead longer and healthier lives with good dental care.  In fact, studies show that proper dental care can extend a pet’s life by as much as five years!  Ask your veterinarian about good dental care for your special furry friend. For more information on veterinary dentistry, visit www.myvetonline.com/lelandvh.
For a video about this blog, paste this link into your browser:  https://www.myvnn.com/page.asp?id=39&media_type=11&story_id=16.

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Dr. David Beauchamp owns Leland Veterinary Hospital at 508 Village Rd, Leland, NC 28451.  Email our practice at lelandvethosp@gmail.com.

FDA Investigation Into Pet JerkyTreats

FDA Investigates Animal Illnesses Linked to Jerky Pet Treats

September 13, 2012

What is the issue?
Since 2007, the FDA has become aware of increasing numbers of illnesses in pets associated with the consumption of jerky pet treats. The majority of complaints involve chicken jerky (treats, tenders, and strips), but others include duck, sweet potato, and treats where chicken or duck jerky is wrapped around dried fruits, sweet potatoes, or yams.

The FDA has received approximately 2,200 reports of pet illnesses which may be related to consumption of the jerky treats. The majority of the complaints involve dogs, but cats also have been affected. Over the past 18 months the reports have contained information on 360 canine deaths and one feline death. There does not appear to be a geographic pattern to the case reports. Cases have been reported from all 50 states and 6 Canadian provinces in the past 18 months.

Although the FDA has been actively investigating the reports of illnesses, no definitive cause has been determined. The ongoing global investigation is complex, multifaceted and includes a wide variety of experts at the FDA including toxicologists, epidemiologists, veterinary researchers, forensic chemists, microbiologists, field investigators and senior agency officials.

In the past 10 years, there has been a dramatic increase in importation of pet food from China. Human consumption of poultry in China largely consists of dark meat, leaving a large amount of light meat poultry products available for export. From 2003, when China first approached the USDA about poultry exports, to 2011, the volume of pet food exports (regulated by the FDA) to the United States from
China has grown 85-fold (see table). It is estimated that nearly 86 million pounds of pet food came from China in 2011. Pet treats, including jerky pet treats are currently considered the fastest growing segment in the pet food market.

What are the signs of the illnesses?
The majority of the cases in dogs report primarily gastrointestinal signs, including vomiting and diarrhea, sometimes with blood and/or mucus, and can involve severe signs such as pancreatitis or gastrointestinal bleeding. The next most common signs relate to kidney function, including frequent urination, increased urine, severe thirst, kidney failure and some cases resemble a rare kidney related illness called Fanconi’s syndrome. Typically Fanconi syndrome is found in certain breeds of dogs that are pre-disposed to hereditary Fanconi syndrome (e.g. Basenji).

Progression of the investigation: What is being done about the problem?
Since 2007, the FDA has been actively investigating the cause of illnesses reported in pets which may be associated with the consumption of jerky pet treat products. Beginning in 2007, samples of products – collected at import, at retail stores, and submitted by consumers and veterinarians -- have been tested by FDA laboratories, by the Veterinary Laboratory Response Network (Vet-LRN), and by other animal health diagnostic laboratories in the United States for multiple chemical and microbiological contaminants. The Vet-LRN program is currently focused on testing products that have been submitted by pet owners whose pets have experienced adverse effects following ingestion of the treats. In addition, starting in 2007, the FDA reached out through the veterinary community to solicit tissue samples (blood, urine, feces, necropsy, etc.) that have been associated with active jerky pet treat cases, but to date; none of the testing results have revealed the cause of the illnesses.
To date, product samples have been tested for contaminants known to cause the symptoms and illnesses reported in pets including, Salmonella, metals, furans, pesticides, antibiotics, mycotoxins, rodenticides, nephrotoxins (such as aristolochic acid, maleic acid, paraquat, ethylene glycol, diethylene glycol, toxic hydrocarbons, melamine, and related triazines) and were screened for other chemicals and poisonous compounds. DNA verification was conducted on these samples to confirm the presence of poultry in the treats. The FDA’s testing of jerky treat product samples for toxic metals including tests for heavy metals have been negative.

In 2011, samples were also submitted for nutritional composition, including fatty acids, crude fiber, glycerol, protein, ash and moisture and other excess nutrients. The purpose of nutritional composition testing is to verify the presence of ingredients listed on the label. To date, none of the testing results have revealed an association between a causative agent and the reported illnesses.

The FDA is now expanding its testing to include irradiation byproducts and is consulting with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) experts to discuss this possibility further.

After increased complaints began in 2011, the FDA conducted five plant inspections in China during March and April 2012. These firms were selected for inspection because the jerky products they manufacture were identified with some of the highest numbers of pet illness reports. The FDA conducted the inspections to get a greater understanding of the manufacturing processes used to make the jerky pet treats and to see if this would help further the public health investigation. The FDA did identify that one firm falsified receiving documents for glycerin, which is an ingredient in most jerky pet treats. As a result of the inspection, the Chinese authority, the Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine (AQSIQ), informed the FDA that it seized products at that firm and suspended exports of its products until corrective actions were taken by the firm.

The FDA has also reached out to U.S. pet food firms to enlist their help in this public health investigation and is seeking further collaboration on scientific issues and data sharing. No specific products have been recalled. However, if the FDA identifies the cause, or a recall is initiated, the Agency will notify the public.

What can pet owners do?
The FDA is reminding pet owners that jerky pet treats are not necessary for pets to have a fully balanced diet, so eliminating them will not harm pets. Commercially produced pet food, which is very safe, contains all of the nutrients that pets need.

The FDA is advising pet owners who choose to feed their pets jerky pet treat products to watch their pets closely for any or all of the following signs that may occur within hours to days of feeding the products: decreased appetite; decreased activity; vomiting; diarrhea, sometimes with blood; increased water consumption and/or increased urination. If your pet shows any of these signs, stop feeding the jerky pet treat product. Owners should consult their veterinarian if signs are severe or persist for more than 24 hours, as it is important that your pet receive prompt medical attention. Blood tests may indicate kidney failure (increased urea nitrogen and creatinine). Urine tests may indicate Fanconi syndrome (increased glucose). Although most pets appear to recover, some reports to the FDA have involved pets that have died.

In addition, pet owners may want to continue to monitor information as it is posted by the FDA. The agency has continually updated the Questions & Answers document on its web site and will add information as it becomes available.

How can you help our investigation?
While your veterinarian will tend to your pet’s condition, you or your veterinarian can learn how to help the FDA’s Center for Veterinary Medicine (CVM) investigate your pet’s illness. Dr. Bernadette Dunham, director of CVM, shares how you can report a pet food illness on her blog from August 21, 2012. Cases of animal illness associated with pet foods can be reported electronically through the Safety Reporting Portal, or by calling the FDA Consumer Complaint Coordinators in your state. ***NOTE: In NC, that number is (404) 253-1169***

Vaccinations and Preventative Care--How To Save Money

Gas prices are going up, healthcare premiums keep rising, and employment numbers are not encouraging.  How can a good pet owner keep up with everything and still provide the best care for their four-legged family members?


By:  David G. Beauchamp, DVM

With many demands on their checkbook, pet owners today are not only looking for the best care, but also the best value.  Even though veterinary medicine has historically been a great value, the price of special diets, wellness care, grooming, and dental care can really start to add up.  Luckily, following a few simple preventive guidelines can help you to make sure that your pet stays healthy and you save money. 

Industry experts state that the average yearly cost for keeping a dog is about $1,200 and about $800 for a cat.  According to the Humane Society of the United States, the cost of veterinary care is actually very reasonable when compared to human health care (www.hsus.org).  Still, the prospect of an emergency or prolonged illness of their pet has many owners concerned.  In addition, many pet owners do not see the benefit of regular checkups and preventative care.  A recent study suggests that over 50% of pet owners do not purchase any flea/tick or heartworm prevention for their pets.

The very best recommendation for saving money is to prevent those diseases that are easy to prevent and costly to treat.   Diseases such as canine parvovirus, canine distemper, feline leukemia, or feline panleukopenia are all easily avoided by the administration of vaccinations during the puppy and kitten years and adulthood.  Each of the above mentioned infectious diseases can be extremely costly to treat.  A puppy who contracts canine parvovirus can easily end up costing his owner in excess of $1500-1800 in hospitalization, antibiotics, and supportive care.   Compare that price tag to the $10-25 cost of a routine vaccine and you can easily see the benefits and, of course, the savings.   Additionally, talk with your veterinarian about which vaccines are right for your pet.  Due to differing risk factors, your pet may not need every vaccine available and that can help to save you money as well.  For example, Leland Veterinary Hospital now recommends vaccinating for canine distemper and parvo every three years along with feline panleukopenia and upper respiratory viruses.  Due to modern vaccine technology, it is no longer necessary to have your pets vaccinated against these diseases every year.

However, Drs. Beauchamp, Brazik, and Claypool recommend yearly vaccination against canine leptospirosis and lyme disease and bordatella.  In addition, we recommend yearly wellness visits for patients under seven years of age and twice yearly visits for patients over seven years of age.  Our staff and doctors can detect diseases either by physical examination or through diagnostic tests such as in-house bloodwork and begin treatment before your pet suffers any long lasting effects.  Dogs and cats age at a much faster rate than people and that is why we recommend periodic wellness exams.  This service can save pet owners hundreds and maybe even thousands of dollars in medical treatments down the road.  So be sure and make an appointment when you receive your reminder notice.

Parasites, such as heartworms and intestinal worms, are often a source of disease and some can even be spread to you and your family.   Simple, effective heartworm preventives are available and most will end up costing less than $20 per month.  In the form of chewable pills, these preventives are also easy to give.  Some of the medications will prevent heartworm disease and also stop the infestation of intestinal parasites and flea infestation. This inexpensive preventive step can actually save you from having to pay big money to treat your dog for heartworms or potentially treat your family for a roundworm or hookworm infection.  Due to the prevalence of intestinal parasites and the increase in heartworm cases across the United States, remembering your pet’s heartworm preventive can truly be a life-saver as well as helping you to save those pennies.  Did you know that potting soil is now considered a major source of roundworm infection?

As a rule, most people are very good about brushing and caring for their own teeth, but how many would think about caring for their pet’s teeth?   Proper dental care can be a big money saver for pet owner.   Dental disease in our pets can predispose pets to heart problems, liver problems, and even kidney problems.  The American Animal Hospital Association has stated that more than 80% of dogs and cats over the age of 3 years old have some sort of dental disease.  Early preventative care, such as routine teeth brushing, proper dental chew toys, and oral examinations can help to prevent the need for a costly dental procedure.  Our veterinarians are able to use the latest equipment and treatments to help slow the accumulation of plaque and tartar.  Keeping the plaque away also means keeping away the high cost of dental disease and the other related problems.

Our doctors strive to keep us eating healthy and staying fit.   Those same words of advice are equally helpful for pets too!  Two 20 minute brisk walks are a great way to keep your dog in top shape and help firm up your shape as well.  Studies have shown more than 25% of pets seen by veterinarians are obese and that extra weight can lead to problems in the joints, heart problems, breathing issues, and even diseases such as diabetes.  Using a high quality diet for your pet can also help to prevent medical issues and keep him or her at an appropriate weight.  Although it might seem counter-intuitive, buying a premium diet for your pet will end up saving money for you in the long run.   For over twenty years we have recommended Science Diet dog and cat foods because they are quality diets especially formulated for the life stages and/or the medical condition of your pet.  In a recent study, Science Diet was the highest quality food on the market in every life stage of dogs and cats.  Low-cost, generic brand pet foods are often low in energy, causing the pet to eat more to meet their energy needs, thereby finishing those cheaper bags faster than a similar sized high quality diet.  The money you save by going generic might end up being spent solving a problem years later!

Finally, some good common sense rules will help you to save money on your pet care as well.   Keeping your pet confined, or on a leash, will insure that he or she is not roaming the streets, at a risk of being hit by a car or attacked by another animal.  Spaying or neutering your pet will prevent the need to spend extra money on the care and feeding of puppies or kittens and will also reduce your pet’s urge to roam.  Seeing your veterinarian twice a year is a great way to catch problems and diseases before they get too advanced. And finally, either a pet health insurance policy or a savings account for your pet could help you to provide excellent care in an emergency situation.  

Pet owners want to be able to provide the best for their furry friends.  Keeping these simple ideas in mind will help to prevent costly disease and accidents to your pet.  For more ways to reduce the potential cost of medical care for your pet, see our veterinarians.  Visit our website www.myvetonline.com/lelandvh to see how many of your pet’s health problems can be avoided .  Call our office at 371-3440 for more information and to make an appointment.  You can also make an appointment through your pet portal. 


Dr. David Beauchamp is president of Leland Veterinary Hospital at 508 Village Rd, Leland, NC.  You can email our practice at lelandvethosp@gmail.com