Vetradent and Petsmile Dental Health Products

National Pet Dental Health Month may be coming to a close, but maintaining good oral hygiene for your dog or cat should continue all year long. Here at VetRxDirect, we carry a large variety of dental health solutions, but we would like to mention a couple new and noteworthy dental products that will help keep those mouths clean, fresh, and healthy.

Vetradent Dental Spray at VetRxDirectVetradent Dental Spray is applied directly to the teeth and gum line to reduce plaque and tartar in the mouth. This odorless, tasteless, and colorless liquid contains Biotrate technology to break through biofilm in the mouth, and reduce bacteria formation. Vetradent contains zinc chloride to help reduce bad breath and citric acid to maintain the pH balance in the mouth.

 

VetraDent Water Additive at VetRxDirectVetradent Water Additive is an odorless, tasteless, and colorless liquid is added into your pet’s drinking water to control plaque and tartar. It works to break through biofilm in the mouth and reduce the bacteria responsible for plaque and tartar formation. Vetradent helps reduce bad breath and maintains the pH balance in the mouth. 

 

 

Petsmile Toothpaste at VetRxDirectPetsmile Toothpaste it is specifically designed to remove plaque and biofilm on the teeth. It contains Calprox, a mineral and calcium peroxide formula that works quickly to clean and freshen the mouth. It helps reduce bad breath and prevent the buildup of plaque and tartar which can lead to disease. Petsmile has also been awarded the seal of acceptance by the Veterinary Oral Health Council for plaque inhibition. 

 

 

Image result for petsmile applicatorPetsmile Applicator Swabs make it easier for you to apply toothpaste to your pet’s teeth and gums. They are reusable with a soft tip and a long wand for hard to reach areas in the mouth.

Celebrate National Dog Biscuit Day with a Special Treat

Happy National Dog Biscuit Day!

This day is also observed around the world as International Dog Biscuit Appreciation Day. The exact origin of this holiday is unknown, but it’s a great occasion to give your dog a treat.The first dog biscuits were developed in the mid-19th century by American manufacturer James Spratt. He came up with the idea after he visited  England, where he observed stray dogs looking for leftover food. The first Spratts biscuits were produced in London, with a secret recipe including both meat and vegetables. Dog treats have come a long way over the years. Treats not only taste good, but they can also help clean dogs’ teeth and be used as a reward for good behavior. Here are some of the favorite treats by our customers and their dogs:

Woofables Gourmet Dog Treats at VetRxDirectWoofables Gourmet Dog Treats are baked right down the street from our office. Woofables are handmade with the fresh, natural ingredients with no additives, artificial flavoring, coloring, or preservatives. They are sure to please the pallet with delicious dietary flavors Choose from Dino Lites, Honey Oat Bears, P-Nutters, Pup-permint, Vegan, and Wheat-Free Wafers.

 

 

DuoClenz at VetRxDirectDuoClenz rawhide chews are a dental treat for dogs that help keep teeth clean and freshen breath. They work to prevent the buildup of oral plaque and tartar with an enzyme coating and an abrasive texture. Each chew is made from cooked beef rawhide and has a tasty poultry flavor that dogs will enjoy.

 

 

Gentle Snackers Hypoallergenic Canine TreatsGentle Snackers make snack time fun for dogs with even the most sensitive systems. These hypoallergenic, tasty dog treats are formulated specifically for dogs that have allergies to certain proteins or have sensitive gastrointestinal tracts.They contain a single source of protein and have a low molecular weight so they’re easily digestible. Gentle Snackers also complement the Purina Veterinary Diets.

 

Neat Treats at VetRxDirect

Neat Treats takes rewarding your pet to the next level by making it healthy and delicious! They are soft, chewable treats with high protein, low fat, and gluten-free. These delicious treats are made with real chicken, potato flour, and molasses. The Large Dog formula has added Glucosamine and Chondroitin for bone and joint health.

Winter Skincare Solutions For Dogs and Cats

Winter’s cold weather and low humidity conditions can cause your skin to become dry and uncomfortable. This also affects dogs and cats, despite their layer of fur for protection. In fact, winter skin and coat problems are a common concern for pet owners. Indoor heating can dry out the air and circulate allergens throughout your home. Just as you may take extra steps to keep your skin healthy when the weather turns cool, we’ve put together some tips for your pets too.

Exposed Skin

Dogs and cats grow their own winter coat, but this does not mean they are always protected from frostbite and skin injury. The most vulnerable areas to frostbite are on paw pads, ears, and tail. Learn more about the signs of frostbite. Monitor weather conditions closely and limit your pet’s time outdoors especially during wind chill, extreme cold, and other winter weather warnings. Snow and ice can cut paws, so before going for walks, keep paw pads hydrated and protected with a spray or balm. When you return home, wipe their paws to remove any potentially toxic or irritating substances like salt, ice melt products, and antifreeze.

Humidity

Make sure your home is comfortable for you and your pets all winter long by controlling the humidity levels. If you have a forced-air or central furnace system, it will emit dry heat throughout your home. This low humidity environment quickly dries out the skin, nasal passages, and causes static electricity shocks. To combat dry air, try using a humidifier and fixing cold air drafts.

Winter Allergies

Allergies may burden your dog or cat throughout the warm weather, but during the winter months, pets usually spend most of their time inside your home. Dust mites and mold are common indoor allergens that are triggered in the colder months. If it’s already dry, continual scratching from allergies and irritants can damage your pet’s skin and make them prone to other skin problems or infections. While they cannot survive freezing temperatures outdoors, fleas can thrive indoors during winter. Consider using preventatives all year long to keep your pet from being bitten.

Diet & Nutrition

If your dog’s skin is easily dry or irritated during winter, talk to your veterinarian about trying a special diet or incorporating supplements. Omega fatty acids are important for healthy skin. Poor nutrition, including low levels of dietary protein and essential fatty acids, can also cause a dull hair coat.

Grooming & Bathing

In the winter, try reducing the number of baths you give to your dog or cat. Soaps and shampoos can strip the natural skin oils causing flaky, itchy skin. Instead, use a moisturizing or waterless shampoo. You may also try bathing wipes for spot cleaning. Regular brushing also helps encourage blood circulation and distributes natural oils to help moisturize the skin.

VetRxDirect offers a variety of products to meet your dog or cat’s skincare needs throughout every season. Check out these top picks for winter:

DermAllay at VetRxDirectDermallay is a gentle shampoo designed to relieve irritated skin. It contains ceramides to restore and repair damaged skin. It also includes colloidal oatmeal and safflower oil to soothe itching and hydrate dryness. Dermallay is soap-free is ideal for pets with sensitive skin or those with allergies. Leave on the Spray Conditioner for additional moisturizing.

 

 

Image result for 03 omegaO3 Omega features high potency essential fatty acids EPA and DHA from wild-caught fish oil. It includes vitamins A, D, and E. It helps promote healthy skin and coat as well as immune and joint health.  Giving O3 Omega to your dog or cat is easier since it comes in a variety of options including capsules, clip tips, liquid, soft chews, and mini bites.

 

 

PawTection at VetRxDirect

 

PawTector is a wax barrier for use in protecting your dog’s paw pads from the elements, such as ice, snow, and hot asphalt and pavement. PawTector can also protect against rough surfaces such as sand, rocks, stone, concrete, or salt. PawTection is water-resistant making it ideal for winter skin hydration and for protecting the paws.

 

 

Hylagroom Mousse is a waterless, soap-free cleanser for dogs and cats with sensitive skin and coats. It features a hypoallergenic and pH balanced formula that gently cleans and hydrates. Hylagroom contains ceramides and essential fatty acids to moisturize dry and irritated skin and reinforce the natural skin barrier.

 

Beware of Chocolate Poisoning in Dogs and Cats

Dogs and cats are known for eating things when they are not supposed to. This is especially true of puppies and kittens. Typically cats will turn up their nose at chocolate, but most dogs find it irresistible. Also, dogs have an excellent sense of smell, making it fairly easy to find any secret hiding spots for the chocolate. This can be a dangerous combination when there is chocolate around the house.Related image

Chocolate is made from seeds of the cacao tree and contains certain properties that are toxic to animals: caffeine and theobromine. If ingested, these can prompt multiple medical complications and may even prove fatal. Dogs and cats cannot metabolize these like people can, therefore it makes them more sensitive to these ingredients. Chocolates and candy bars are the most common ingested but other sources include flavored multi-vitamins, baked goods, liqueurs, or chocolate-covered espresso beans.Typically, the less sweet and the darker the chocolate, the more toxic it is to your pet. Baker’s chocolate, dark and semi-sweet chocolates, cocoa beans and cocoa powder cause the biggest problems. White chocolate has very little theobromine and does not normally cause poisoning.

If your pet eats a small amount of chocolate it may cause mild vomiting and diarrhea. Larger amounts can cause severe symptoms like agitation, increased and abnormal heart rhythms, and seizures. Due to the higher fat content in chocolate, some pets may develop pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) after ingesting it.

Signs to watch for:

  • Agitation
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Tremors
  • Increased heart rate
  • Elevated blood pressure
  • Abnormal heart rhythms
  • Elevated body temperature
  • Seizures
  • Collapse

If you suspect that your dog or cat has eaten chocolate, or starts showing these signs, talk with your veterinarian immediately. With Valentine’s day right around the corner, make sure your sweet treats are kept out of paws reach. Also, watch out for candy wrappers which can be a choking hazard or possibly cause a bowel obstruction. Check out these other Valentines Day Tips.

Dental Health Tips and Solutions For Dogs and Cats

Has your dentist ever told you to brush or floss your teeth more? We may need reminders here and there, but keep in mind that dental hygiene is also a very important part of your dog or cat’s overall health and wellness. Dental problems can also be the source of other health conditions. Periodontal disease is the most common oral condition in dogs and cats. It starts with plaque, a sticky film made of bacteria that covers the surface of the teeth. When plaque is not removed and allowed to build up, it hardens into tartar, which can cause gum inflammation and prompt infections. Poor oral hygiene is more than bad breath, it can lead to painful mouth conditions and make eating difficult. February is National Pet Dental Health Month, so teeth are the topic, and we have some helpful tips to keep your dog and cat healthy and happy.

 

Get In Charge of Dental Health

  • The first step is to talk to your veterinarian. During an exam, they will look at your pet’s teeth and gums for signs of plaque or tartar buildup, as well as detect problems. They will recommend a regimen based on your pet’s age, general health, and the condition of their teeth. X-rays and regular teeth cleanings are a common treatment plan for dental wellness and diseases. Learn more.
  • Start an at-home regimen as early as you can. If you have a puppy or kitten, get them accustomed to having gum massages. When their adult teeth come in, they’ll be more accepting of regular tooth brushing -One of the best ways to remove plaque.
  • Choose the best pet oral hygiene products. Talk to your veterinarian about which dental health supplies, chews, and supplements are right for your pet and how to use them. These can help you maintain your pets dental health at home between visits or cleaning, and may help prevent the formation of oral diseases.
  • Commit to your plan. Stay on schedule and follow through with the plans for the best long-term dental care.

Dental Health Care Products

VetRxDirect has a wide selection of dental care products for both dogs and cats. Check out these favorites:

Vetradent at VetRxDirectVetradent reduces bacteria in the mouth responsible for plaque and tartar formation. It is an odorless, tasteless, and colorless liquid that contains Biotrate technology to break through bacterial biofilm in the mouth. Vetradent also eliminates bad breath and maintains the dental pH balance. Use Vetradent Water Additive to fresh water, or Vetradent Spray directly on the teeth and gumline.

 

1-TDC at VetRxDirect1-TDC, TetraDecanol Complex, is an esterified fatty acid oil that naturally supports healthy gum tissue and helps reduce the risk of periodontal disease in dogs and cats. It also works to support the health and function of your pet’s joints to keep them active and mobile.

 

 

Oratene at VetRxDirect

Oratene dental care products contain a patented enzymatic system with antifungal and antibacterial properties. Use Oratene Drinking Water Additive for a brushless oral solution that removes plaque and reduces odor-causing bacteria. Antiseptic Oral Gel helps treat mouth infections. Brush with Oratene Toothpaste to eliminate plaque and bacteria. Breath Freshener soothes dry mouth, cleans, and refreshes.

 

DuoClenz Dental Chews at VetRxDirectDuoClenz chews keep your dog’s teeth clean and their breath fresh. They have a special enzyme coating and abrasive texture to make contact with the tooth surface while preventing plaque and tartar buildup. Each chew is made from cooked beef rawhide and has a tasty poultry flavor that dogs love.