June is Pet Smile Month .

Free dental check-ups for cats and dogs.

Dogs and cats across the UK will be grinning in June thanks to Pet Smile Month, supported by Bonio and Felix Denta Paw. Now in its fifth year, Pet Smile Month will offer free dental check-up's for dogs and cats throughout June to encourage owners to take responsibility for their pets' teeth, an aspect of pet care that is often overlooked. An estimated 80% of dogs and cats over the age of three need dental treatment. Dental disease can lead to much more serious problems; with the spread of infection leading to damaged kidneys and heart disease. So it's important that people ensure their pet's teeth are regularly checked and Pet Smile Month is a great way to start.
Owners who want to take advantage of a free dental check-up for their pet should contact their own vet to see if it is a registered Pet Smile Month practice. If they are not, log on to www.petsmile.org and tap in your postcode for a list of local participating vets or telephone 08714 24-25-26. Owners will also receive a goody bag when they visit their vet for a dental check up containing either Bonio or Felix Denta Paw.

Bob Partridge, vet and founder of Pet Smile Month, explains the importance of dental hygiene "Brushing your pets' teeth regularly is an area that is often forgotten about as getting a toothbrush near to a pet's mouth can be very difficult. Pet owners do need to persevere as dental disease can affect the whole body if left unattended; it's not just a matter of bad breath".

Pet Smile Month sponsors, Bonio & Felix have some top tips for keeping your pet's mouth & teeth as healthy as can be:

1. Start cleaning teeth as soon as you get a new puppy or kitten

2. With older pets start now, it's never too late

3. Discuss teeth cleaning & preventative care with your vet

4. Clean teeth regularly, preferably daily and make it fun with a pet treat at the end 5. Don't use human toothpaste consult your vet

6. To help keep your dog's teeth clean feed Bonio biscuits which are proven to reduce the build-up of plaque by 20% and tartar by
25% when fed regularly

7. Feed your cat Felix Denta Paw, scientifically proven to reduce the build up of tartar by 29% when fed everyday for 28 days
8. If there is pain, bad breath, redness, bleeding or broken teeth book an appointment with your vet immediately.

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