PERIODONTAL FINDINGS IN COMPANION DOGS AND ITS AWARENESS AMONGST THEIR GUARDIANS-A CROSS SECTIONAL STUDY IN NAGPUR, INDIA

Veterinary Periodontal disease (PD) is widely known for its rising prevalence globally amongst canines, and its severe systemic consequences warrant its attention in Companion dogs. However, the data pertaining to the Indian scenario is scarce. The objective of this study was to assess the periodontal findings in companion dogs that live in the urban region of Nagpur, Maharashtra, India, and also to assess its awareness amongst their guardians. A field survey was conducted from March 10th, 2019 to April 30th, 2019, on the dogs and their oral cavities examined using the Modified American Veterinary Dental College scale. Amongst 250 pets surveyed, 72.40 % of them were found to have PD and 55.85% of their caretakers knew about this condition and of these only, 25.40% undertook any preventive measure or professional intervention for the same. Therefore, it can be concluded that periodontal disease is highly prevalent amongst the pet dogs of Nagpur City and not all of their caretakers were aware of this condition. Thus a city wide awareness campaign should be recommended to aware the guardians of the said condition.