Vaccine for gum disease

Pfizer Animal Health has launched a vaccine to fight bacteria that leads to gum disease in dogs.

Porphyromonas Denticanis-Gulae-Salivosa Bacterin, named after the main bacteria that causes periodontal disease, is given initially in two doses three week apart, to dogs at least 7 weeks old. The U.S. Dept. of Agriculture gave the vaccine conditional approval, which means it’s believed to be effective but long-term studies are ongoing.

Periodontal disease can lead to tooth loss and other health problems if untreated. The vaccine is only part of a plan that should include regular brushing of teeth, dental exams and teeth cleaning. For more information, contact your veterinarian or visit www.rkconnect.com/p3.