Frequently Asked Questions
In these unprecedented times we are all concerned about each and every member of the family, including the four-legged ones. Our friends and expert partners at the Waltham Petcare Science Institute have been working tirelessly for more than 50 years to bring their scientific knowledge to benefit pets all around the world. Together, we are closely monitoring the latest events and scientific insights surrounding coronavirus. Please follow this link (opens in new window) to Waltham Petcare Science Institute’s latest guidance on how to care for your pet during Covid-19.
Please check our FAQs list below to see if we have already answered your most common questions. If your questions are not answered, you can call us at 1 800 525 5273, or send us an email (opens in new window) (opens in new window) , and we will respond to your inquiry promptly.
The FAQs are organized in six major categories listed directly below. Click on one to see all the FAQs within that category or scroll through the page to view all questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Q:
Why is pet oral health important?
A:Poor oral health can lead to red, swollen gums, bad breath, tooth loss and—if left untreated—has been associated with the development of more serious issues like heart, lung and kidney problems. Just like in humans, poor oral health can also lead to pain, which can reduce overall quality of life. In fact, 4 out of 5 dogs over the age of three may suffer from some level of gum disease.*
This is why the improved PEDIGREE® Dry Recipes have been formulated to meet the Four Universal Needs of Dogs, which includes Oral Care;
Q:What can pet owners do to take care of their dog's teeth?
A:Dental health may not be at the top of many pet owners' list of priorities, but caring for your dog's teeth is critical to its overall health. As with humans, a proactive approach is key. This can be achieved through regular dental exams and cleanings by a vet, daily tooth brushing and feeding your dog specially designed foods and treats that help clean teeth.
Select PEDIGREE® Dry Recipes include a patented Oral Care kibble. This kibble promotes dental health through chewing, increasing the mechanical abrasion action that helps reduce tartar buildup on the tooth surface. (Note: Oral Care kibble not available in all varieties. See bags for details.)
Q:Why is caring for the skin and coat important?
A:A visibly healthy skin and coat is considered to be an indication of the overall health of a dog. A dog's skin and coat serve key functions such as regulation of body temperature and hydration, and storage of several nutrients. As with humans, a dog's skin is its largest organ, and—in conjunction with its coat—acts as a protective barrier from the external environment.
Skin and coat problems, such as flakiness and dullness, are often the first indication of a health issue. Conditions which can negatively affect skin and coat quality include nutritional deficiencies or a poor-quality diet.
This is why the PEDIGREE® Dry Recipes have been formulated to meet the Four Universal Needs of Dogs, which includes Skin & Coat.
Q:Why are Linoleic Acid and Zinc important to skin and coat health?
A:Linoleic acid and zinc are the two most important nutritional ingredients for helping dogs maintain a healthy skin and coat. Research from the Waltham Petcare Science Institute has shown that supplementation of linoleic acid and zinc at levels well above minimal requirements will lead to increased coat shine and gloss, and an increase in the hydration of the skin. Further research shows that the addition of each of these nutrients separately leads to small benefits; however, the benefit is much greater when these nutrients are supplemented together.