Countryside Animal Rescue will begin its February observation of National Pet Dental Health Month in February by sponsoring a free pet dental screening clinic for dogs and cats from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday at Speck’s Pet Supply in Anderson.

Dr. Joy Dvorak, veterinarian from the Alexandria Animal Hospital, will conduct the free dental screenings, make recommendations and provide information for each pet’s dental needs. Free screenings will be available on a walk-in basis, and no appointment is required.

Volunteers from Countryside Animal Rescue will be on hand to help assist and will have information on pets available for adoption, low-cost spay/neuter options, and other concerns.

Speck’s is located at the corner of Cross Street and Scatterfield Road. Information will also be available from various area veterinary clinics offering special discount prices for pet dental care during the month long promotion.

The 14th annual “Pets Need Dental Care, Too” program is designed to raise awareness with pet owners about good health practices and to schedule regular veterinary appointments for their pets. Oral disease is the most frequently diagnosed health problem for pets, and according to the American Veterinary Dental Society, it is estimated that more than 80 percent of dogs and cats over the age of four show signs of oral disease.

Like humans, cats and dogs need routine home care of their teeth and gums through daily brushing to prevent oral disease. If left untreated, plaque buildup may lead to periodontal disease and other health problems, including bad breath, red, swollen and tender gums, receding gums, bleeding, pain and eventually tooth loss. Infections caused by periodontal disease may become potentially damaging to the heart, liver and kidneys.

The month-long campaign is sponsored jointly by the American Veterinary Dental Society, the Academy of Veterinary Dentistry, the American Veterinary College and Hill’s Pet Nutrition. More information is available on the Internet at www.petdental.com.

Countryside Animal Rescue is an all-volunteer, 501 (c) (3) not-for-profit organization dedicated to pet education and animal welfare. For more information, visit www.countrysideanimalrescue.org or call (765) 649-7944.