As there are so many skin and health conditions our dogs suffer from, sometimes we forget that just like us we need to look after their teeth and gums. Some of the signs of teeth and gum issues are bad breath, excessive drooling, loose teeth and inflamed gums. We can brush our dogs teeth each day, but as we all know this is easier said than done with some dogs! I know I have tried with our dog Buddy and he hates it. This great alternative from Ace Canine is called plaque away and it really works. We have been using it for a couple of weeks and the bad breath has gone. The product does smell quite strong, but Buddy seemed to love it! You can buy this at Zoomadog Health Store for Dogs.

Plaque Away for dogs is a specially selected dried seaweed garanule, harvested from te cold clean North Atlantic ocean. Plaque Away helps protect against the build up of plaque on your dogs teeth and the resulting tartar and gum disease – The products also prevents bad breath in dogs.

Whilst we’re aware that we need to have our own teeth checked by a Dentist on a regular basis we may not always give our pets’ teeth the same consideration. One of the most common medical problems that dogs suffer from nowadays is tooth and gum disease. The result is that one of the commonest procedures carried out in Veterinary Surgeries is dental treatment that usually involves removal of plaque and tartar and may necessitate the use of a general anaesthetic. 

Dog breath’ as an expression is often down to the fact that many dogs do suffer from bad breath. Sometimes, this is down to a serious oral problem, so have your have your dog checked out by a vet. Assuming nothing too serious is found then you can go ahead and use this dog bad breath remedy.

Plaque-away, unlike many other dog bad breath remedies, is digested by your dog and the active ingredients are dispersed via the bloodstream to the salivary glands and then into your dogs saliva.  The active ingredient, a sulphonated fructose, is present in the saliva 24 hrs a day and its anti bacterial properties reduce the formation of plaque. Plaque is not visible, but you may see the brown tartar deposits reduce after 4-8 weeks, confirming that the effect is taking place.

Signs of tooth/gum disease

Many dogs suffer from bad breath but it may be due to a serious oral problem.  Other indications to look out for are yellow or brown stains on teeth particularly around the gum line, swollen or bleeding gums and lack of appetite due to sore or loose teeth.  The problem may even cause a change in the dog’s whole demeanour if the pain is acute.

What is plaque?

Plaque is the name for invisible but soft deposits of bacteria and food particles that accumulate on the surface of teeth and gums. Plaque left untreated is likely to turn hard, turning yellow then eventually brown – at which stage it is known as tartar – and comes along with increased potential for development of infection and gum disease.  Also, in it’s turn, tartar is an ideal surface upon which more plaque can form.

Why is plaque harmful?

The bacteria associated with plaque can cause inflammation in the gums so may eventually damage the tissue holding tooth sockets as they sit within the jaw bones. A healthy mouth & gums is often indicative of good overall health and vice versa.  Bad breath, sore gums & fragile teeth could indicate that your pet may have underlying problems.

Can we prevent plaque forming?

The diet we give our pets may determine to a large extent the health of teeth & gums; animals fed largely on soft foods tend to build-up more plaque and tartar than those given hard crunchy foods and/or bones.  Nevertheless, some breeds or individuals however may produce the type of saliva that makes them more prone than others to the build-up of plaque.  The most natural way for dogs to maintain a healthy mouth is by chewing on raw bones, ideally under supervision.   The chewing action helps clean teeth whilst at the same time massaging the gums.  Raw bones are safer than cooked bones as the latter are more likely to splinter.

How do I use Plaque-away?

Sprinkle over or mix into your dogs food once a day using the tiny measuring scoop provided. The exact amount isn’t critical.Small dogs (up to 10kg)  half a scoop daily. Medium dogs (10-25kg) one scoop daily. Large dogs (over 25kg)2 scoops daily

How long will the pot last?

The 70gm pot has 150 scoopfuls  and the 400gm pot has 1000 scoopfulsIs it safe?The amount of plaque-away  ingested is tiny and seaweed is renowned as a beneficial food, containing high levels of vitamins, minerals & trace elements and it is especially rich in natural iodine. If your dog is being treated for Thyroid conditions then consult your Vet before using.The species of seaweeds used are Fucus Vesiculosus and Laminaria Digitata harvested from the clean waters of the North Atlantic.