Prevention the key to reducing veterinary bills

...Focus on oral hygiene habits. By the age of three, 80 percent of dogs and 70 percent of cats show signs of gum disease. Infections that begin in the gums can spread to major organs with grave consequences, particularly with the heart and kidneys. The first line of defense against gum disease is regular tooth brushing. Make sure you use a soft brush designed for pets, and toothpaste formulated for pets. Human toothpaste with fluoride can be toxic to pets. Your veterinarian will instruct you as to how to get started.....

And humans.