Dental specialists offer free examinations for service dogs

The American Veterinary Dental College has organized an event to provide free oral examinations for service dogs in August. 

“Many AVDC veterinary dental specialists have treated service dogs in the past and are well aware that oral pain can prevent these dogs from working effectively,” according to the AVDC. “This program will help ensure that America’s service dogs are able to do their important work at peak efficiency.”

Diplomates of the AVDC will examine service dogs for signs of periodontal disease, fractured teeth, discolored teeth, oral masses, and other oral and dental problems. On finding oral or dental abnormalities, the specialist will lay out a treatment plan that the owner or handler of the service dog can elect to pursue at a later date. In addition, owners and handlers will learn about the benefits of preventive oral health care.

To qualify for a free oral examination, a service dog must have certification from a formal training program or be an enrollee in a training program. Owners and handlers of service dogs can register for the event at www.avdc.org between July 1 and Aug. 15.

Following registration, owners and handlers will receive a registration number and a list of participating veterinary dental specialists in their area whom they can contact to schedule an August appointment.