Man's Best Friend Shouldn't Have the World's Worst Breath; More Than Unpleasant, Smelly Dog Breath is a Sign of Something Serious.

DULUTH, Ga. -- Smelly doggy breath isn't just unpleasant - it's a sign of something serious: gum disease. Striking 85 percent of dogs by age four, it's the most frequently diagnosed health problem in pets. February is National Pet Dental Health Month, and veterinarians nationwide are hoping that dog owners will take the opportunity to start caring for their dogs' teeth.

"In dogs, an unhealthy mouth usually means an unhealthy body," says Jan Bellows, DVM and owner of Hometown Animal Hospital and Dental Clinic in Weston, Fla. "Plaque causes gum disease, leading to halitosis, a sore mouth, loss of teeth, or infections in the heart, liver and kidney. It can even shorten your dog's life span."

Bellows, one of 64 board-certified veterinary dentists in the country, explains owners should care for dogs' teeth as they do their own. Only 1 in 5 have ever attempted to brush their dog's teeth and only 2 percent brush with enough frequency to maintain proper oral health.

"Owners have good intentions but just aren't brushing," states Bellows. "They need an easy alternative."

At work and home, Bellows uses a new system from Merial, maker of FRONTLINE and HEARTGARD, called OraVet. After an in-clinic teeth cleaning, sealant is applied along the gums, creating an invisible barrier. The next step: cost-effective, at-home care. Owners apply an odorless and tasteless gel just once a week to the gum line. It's invisible once applied and compatible with brushing, dental diets and chews.

"OraVet, the first plaque prevention system, is clinically proven to significantly reduce the formation of plaque," says Zack Mills, DVM and executive director of Veterinary Services at Merial. "As a result, dogs' breath is less objectionable."

Bellows applies the gel on his four dogs while reading the Sunday newspaper. "It's quick and easy, and their fresh breath assures me they're healthy," he says.

For more information, contact your veterinarian or visit www.oravet.com.

Note to editors: February is National Pet Dental Health Month. Additional professional photos available upon request.