1Department of Pedodontics & Preventive Dentistry, NIMS Dental College & Hospital, Jaipur, Rajasthan
2Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, Buddha Institute of Dental Science, Patna
3Department of Periodontology, NIMS Dental College & Hospital, Jaipur
4Private practitioner, Gurgoan, (Haryana)
5Department of Community Dentistry, NIMS Dental College & Hospital, Jaipur
Online published on 5 November, 2016.
To assess awareness of oral health of pets amongst veterinarians and pet owners in selected cities of northern India, a cross-sectional, closed ended questionnaire study was conducted amongst the veterinarians and pet owners to assess awareness of oral health in pets. Questionnaires were distributed amongst 55 veterinarians and 270 pet owners. Data were collected and analysed with frequency distribution. The results indicated that almost 71% owners were aware of some oral health problem in their pets. Of those who reported having oral problems in their pets, halitosis remained their major concern (38.5%). 52.08% of pet owners were unsatisfied by the competence and knowledge of the veterinary doctor in treating oral disorders. This article emphasizes on increasing demand and awareness among the pet owners about oral healthcare in their pets and the need to explore the field of veterinary dentistry by human dentists.
Dental awareness, Human dentist, Oral hygiene, Pet owners, Veterinary dentist
