Abstract

Odeya Blumenfeld *, Nathan Pearl , Ehud Saban and Aharon Yonath

Canine oral malodor is a common complaint among dog owners. The aim of this study was to test the effect of an antimicrobial herbal palatal mucoadhesive tablet on oral malodor in dogs. Twelve dogs suffering from oral malodor participated in the study. Palatal mucoadhesive tablets were prepared with or without the herbal medicinals: Echinacea (Echinacea angustifolia), Mastic gum (Pistacia lentiscus), Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) and Sage (Salvia officinalis). Measurement included odor judge scores (two judges) and volatile sulfide compounds (VSC) readings by a sulfide monitor (Halimeter® ). Application of the palatal adhesive tablets containing herbal formulation resulted in a 60% reduction in oral malodor scores and 73% in VSC levels. These results suggest that the palatal mucoadhesive tablets containing herbal formulation may serve as an effective means of treatment for oral malodor in dogs.