Take care of your pet’s dental hygiene and oral health the same way you take care of your own. Animals are also susceptible to dental diseases and conditions. They will not complain as it is their nature to mask pain. However, you will notice some signs that may give you a clue.
Regular care will ensure that your pet lives a long comfortable life. Heed the following guidelines to keep your pet from experiencing the pain of gingivitis, periodontal disease, cavities, and tooth loss.
Start With Dental Chews
Brushing your pet’s teeth can be very uncomfortable for them. Hence, start small before brushing your pet’s teeth. Start with dental chews and bones. These assist in taking care of their dental hygiene. Ensure the bones are not large, as these can put your pet at risk. Never give them antlers or bully sticks as they may cause dental fractures. These are costly to repair and painful.
As a rule of thumb, try and bend the chew. If it is flexible, it is less likely to fracture your pet’s teeth. Remember that if something is too hard for you to chew, it is probably the same for your pet.
Use Dental Treats
These treats have flavors that are pleasant to dogs. They come in different sizes to clean their teeth and massage their gums. The beauty of dental treats is that they have ingredients that your dog comes to love. They also leave their breath smelling fresh. You will always get one that your pet comes to love.
Use Dental Wipes
After the treat, you can use dental wipes to clean the pet’s teeth. They are an ideal way to transition into brushing your pet’s teeth. Use the wipes to rub against the animal’s teeth to remove plaque. The only limitation is that it will not get between the teeth as a toothbrush does.
Brushing
Brushing is essential, and none of the above techniques can replace it. It prevents the buildup of plaque and tartar, which causes bad breath, cavities, and periodontal disease. Make it a daily practice. That way, their teeth will get better and better. Pets don’t like the experience, but you can train them to expect the routine.
There are special toothbrushes for brushing your pet’s teeth. They come in different shapes. You can choose between those that have handles and those that slip on your fingertip. However, ensure the bristles are soft. Otherwise, rigid bristles will hurt your pet’s teeth.
Professional Dental Cleanings
Get into the habit of taking your dog for regular dental cleaning. Once a year is ideal. You can schedule it to coincide with the annual comprehensive checkup. Dental cleanings allow the vet to note issues that need oral care.
They will advise you on tips to handle these issues and prescribe treatment where necessary. It is more expensive than all the tips above. However, it will save your pet from pain, loss of teeth, and other health issues.
For more information on dental hygiene and oral care, call Pearl River Animal Hospital at (845) 735-3213 to reach our office in Pearl River, New York.