Progress slowly continues in realizing the potential of the dental market. Multiple barriers remain, yet the health benefits are widely accepted. February is National Pet Dental Health Month. Veterinary teams and sales personnel getting ready for the event will appreciate these two articles.
Source: True Prophylaxis, JAVMA News, January 15, 2016, page 130.
There is a long list of barriers to overcome in preventative dentistry for cats and dogs: a perception that care is unnecessary; the difficulty of home care; the cost of professional care; and an abiding fear of anesthesia.
Source: Below the surface of anesthesia-free dentistry, JAVMA News, January 13, 2016.
The AVMA and American Animal Hospital Association recently stated that dental cleanings should be performed under anesthesia. According to the 2013 AAHA Dental Care Guidelines for Dogs and Cats, “General anesthesia with intubation is necessary to properly assess and treat the companion animal dental patient.”
INSIGHTS: Over the last few years, our industry has helped fund the development of tool kits to support pet dental care growth, notably:
Reps and hospital teams benefit from planning ahead for Pet Dental Month activities. Proactively replenish inventories to ensure products are in place for the increased activity this special month creates.