Summit Veterinary Hospital
Pet Dental Health
By Fahimeh Zibaee · February 2026 · Volume MMXXVI, Number 2 · Page 11 · 3 min read

Did you know that over 70 percent of cats and dogs show signs of dental disease by age three? Pet dental health is one of the most overlooked aspects of pet care, yet it plays a major role in your pet’s overall well-being.
February is National Pet Dental Health Month, making it the perfect time to learn how a healthy mouth can mean a healthier and happier pet. Why Pet Dental Care Is So Important. Just like humans, pets can develop plaque and tartar that lead to gingivitis, tooth decay, and painful periodontal disease. Left untreated, bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream and cause serious issues affecting the heart, liver, and kidneys.
Common signs of dental trouble include bad breath, yellow or brown buildup on teeth, red or bleeding gums, drooling or dropping food, swelling around the mouth, pawing at the face, or hesitating to eat or chew. If your pet shows any of these signs, it may be time for a dental exam.
A complete dental cleaning goes far beyond brushing. Under anesthesia, we can thoroughly remove tartar above and below the gumline, polish teeth to slow future tartar buildup, obtain dental X-rays to identify hidden issues, extract painful or infected teeth if necessary, and evaluate gum health and track early disease.
Regular dental care can prevent pain, infections, and future costly procedures. Dr. Zibaee, DVM U N D E R N E W O W N E R S H I P ! 23291 Summit Road • Los Gatos, CA 95033 • (408) 353-1113 www.summitvethospital.com Summit Veterinary Hospital Dental Promotion in February and March To celebrate Pet Dental Health Month and help more pets enjoy healthier smiles, we’re offering 20 percent off professional dental cleanings. This offer is valid February 1 through March 31.
The $750 cleaning includes a full oral exam, general anesthesia, ultrasonic scaling and polishing, and an antibiotic injection. It doesn’t include bloodwork, medications that may need to go home, or extractions. Limited spaces are available. Call us today to make an appointment and give your pet the fresh, healthy smile they deserve.
Fundraising Goal Met Meet You at the Stables! Rachael Parakh You did it! In record time with record generosity, community members donated, advocated, and volunteered to help Bear Creek Stables reach our contract fundraising goal with MidPen.
This milestone will allow us to bring important and equine programs to Bear Creek Stables. Mounted Patrol Foundation and Bay Area Barns & Trails helped us cross the finish line and matched contributions made on our behalf. Friends of Bear Creek Stables is now finalizing contract negotiations with MidPen. We will be planning classes, camps, and workshops soon.
What an inspiring way to start the new year. With your help, Bear Creek Stables will soon bring joy, wonder, and healing here in the Bay Area. Visit friendsofbearcreekstables. org for more details.
At a school board meeting last month, the Los Gatos Lions Club presented the Los Gatos-Saratoga Joint Union School District with a $20,000 check to provide funding for canine comfort dogs at the Los Gatos High The Wellness Center hosts six dogs every week. A different dog comes every day, and two come on Mondays. They typically stay The Wellness Center is a space where students can come during the school day if they feel anxious, overwhelmed, or stressed and need a place to rest, reset, recharge, or use coping strategies. When students are in distress, engaging with these friendly dogs can This is just one of many local school programs and community organizations the Los Gatos Lions Club supports. To find out



