The Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the oral health of animals through the evaluation of dental products and diets. Established in 1993, the VOHC has become a recognized authority in the field of veterinary dentistry, providing a valuable resource for pet owners, veterinarians, and the animal health industry. The council's primary objective is to assess the effectiveness of various dental products and diets in reducing tartar, plaque, and bad breath in animals, thereby promoting overall oral health and well-being.
VOHC Certification Process
The VOHC certification process is rigorous and involves a comprehensive evaluation of dental products and diets. To achieve VOHC certification, products must meet specific criteria, including the reduction of tartar, plaque, or bad breath in animals. The council’s evaluation process involves a thorough review of scientific data, including clinical trials and laboratory tests, to ensure that products meet the required standards. Products that meet these standards are awarded the VOHC Seal of Acceptance, which is recognized as a symbol of excellence in the industry.
VOHC Accepted Products
The VOHC maintains a list of accepted products that have met the council’s standards for reducing tartar, plaque, or bad breath in animals. These products include dental chews, toys, and diets, as well as oral care products such as toothpaste and mouthwash. The list of accepted products is updated regularly and can be found on the VOHC website. Pet owners and veterinarians can use this list to make informed decisions about the oral health products they use for their animals.
| Product Category | Number of Accepted Products |
|---|---|
| Dental Chews | 25 |
| Dental Diets | 15 |
| Oral Care Products | 10 |
Key Points
- The VOHC is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the oral health of animals.
- The council evaluates dental products and diets based on their effectiveness in reducing tartar, plaque, and bad breath.
- Products that meet the VOHC's standards are awarded the Seal of Acceptance, which is recognized as a symbol of excellence in the industry.
- The VOHC maintains a list of accepted products, which is updated regularly and available on the council's website.
- Pet owners and veterinarians can use the VOHC's list of accepted products to make informed decisions about the oral health products they use for their animals.
Importance of Oral Health in Animals
Oral health is a critical aspect of overall health in animals. Poor oral health can lead to a range of problems, including bad breath, tartar buildup, and gum disease. If left untreated, these problems can progress to more serious conditions, such as kidney disease and heart disease. Regular dental care, including brushing and veterinary check-ups, can help prevent these problems and promote overall health and well-being.
Risk Factors for Oral Health Problems
Certain animals are at higher risk for oral health problems, including those with a history of dental disease, those that are prone to tartar buildup, and those with certain medical conditions, such as kidney disease. Additionally, animals that do not receive regular dental care are at higher risk for oral health problems. The VOHC’s certification process helps identify products that can help reduce the risk of oral health problems in these animals.
The VOHC's efforts to promote oral health in animals are supported by a range of stakeholders, including veterinarians, pet owners, and the animal health industry. By working together, we can improve the oral health and overall well-being of animals, and reduce the risk of oral health-related problems.
What is the VOHC, and what is its purpose?
+The VOHC is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the oral health of animals through the evaluation of dental products and diets. Its purpose is to provide a valuable resource for pet owners, veterinarians, and the animal health industry by assessing the effectiveness of various dental products and diets in reducing tartar, plaque, and bad breath in animals.
How does the VOHC certification process work?
+The VOHC certification process involves a comprehensive evaluation of dental products and diets. Products must meet specific criteria, including the reduction of tartar, plaque, or bad breath in animals. The council's evaluation process involves a thorough review of scientific data, including clinical trials and laboratory tests, to ensure that products meet the required standards.
What types of products are eligible for VOHC certification?
+The VOHC evaluates a range of dental products and diets, including dental chews, toys, and diets, as well as oral care products such as toothpaste and mouthwash. Products must meet the council's standards for reducing tartar, plaque, or bad breath in animals to be eligible for certification.
Meta Description: Learn about the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) and its mission to improve the oral health of animals through the evaluation of dental products and diets. Discover the VOHC certification process and find a list of accepted products.
