Abstract: A device that is configured to obtain input data for an animal that is a member of the canid family is provided herein. The input data includes a first array having a first plurality of entries, where each entry within the first plurality of entries contains a numerical value that indicates an amount of a type of bacteria that is present within a sample from the animal. The device is further configured to input the input data for the animal into a machine learning model that is configured to receive the input data for the animal and to output an animal age value based at least in part on the input data for the animal. The animal age value identifies a predicted age for the animal. The device is further configured to obtain the animal age value from the machine learning model and to output the animal age value.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are edible products and related methods of modulating an oral microbiota of animals. The edible products include one or more sulfur containing amino acids, such as methionine, cysteine or a cysteine providing derivative, or combinations thereof. Such products and methods can advantageously reduce or prevent oral disease or disorder, e.g, periodontal disease, in animals such as dogs.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is the use of an oral chew and related methods for modulating the canine oral microbiota. The method can include administering an oral chew to a dog in an amount effective to improve the oral health of the dog.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are kits and related methods for testing the oral microbiome of an animal for presence of one or more bacteria, e.g, associated with an oral disease or disorder, such periodontal disease, good oral health, or both, in a sample collected from the animal. The kit includes a sample collection device having a handle and a head opposite the handle. The kit further includes a dry container for storing the sample collection device. The container has an open position for receiving at least a portion of the head and a closed position.