Dental Care For Dogs: Keeping Your Pet’s Teeth Healthy
Dental Care For Dogs: Keeping Your Pet’s Teeth Healthy – Tell the truth: When was the last time you thought about your pet’s dental health? If it’s been a while (or maybe never), you’re not alone. Research shows that about two-thirds of pet owners do not get the dental care recommended by their veterinarians.
This is a big mistake. While pets are usually free of cavities, they are prone to periodontal disease, or gum disease, which is the number one disease found in both dogs and cats. That’s why it’s so important for pet lovers to include dental hygiene in their pet’s health and wellness routine.
Dental Care For Dogs: Keeping Your Pet’s Teeth Healthy
“Just like in humans, dental disease can cause all kinds of serious health problems in animals,” explains Dr. Mark Verdino, Chief of Veterinary Staff at our Pet Health Centers. Dental hygiene is just as important to your pets’ overall health as diet and exercise, he adds. “Gingivitis and tooth loss can be very painful for animals and expensive to treat, but they can also lead to more serious conditions such as heart, lung and kidney damage.”
A Guide To Dental Health For Pets
It is estimated that by the age of three, 80% of dogs and 70% of cats have oral diseases. Some of the more common symptoms in dogs and cats include a buildup of yellow and brown tartar along the gum line; swelling of the gums; and persistent bad breath. A change in eating habits or touching the mouth can also indicate dental disease.
But because dental problems often develop gradually, the signs are easy to miss until a serious infection develops. That’s why it’s so important to schedule a regular annual dental checkup with your pet’s veterinarian.
Below you will find additional information to help you prevent dental disease in your beloved dog or cat and add years to their life.
During a dental exam, your veterinarian will determine the condition of your pet’s teeth. If your pet requires more advanced dental care, your veterinarian will recommend the necessary treatment and approximate costs.
Pet Dental Care In Hattiesburg, Ms
Always remember that regular checkups are key to maintaining your pet’s overall health and well-being, and proper dental care is an important part of that. You think a lot about keeping your dog healthy: quality food, regular check-ups, good physical condition. But what about his teeth?
Oral hygiene is an important but often overlooked factor in your dog’s overall health. If your teeth or gums hurt, you’re dealing with pain and stress that you may not even know you have. If left untreated, the bacteria causing the problem can enter the bloodstream and affect the heart, kidneys, or liver. Vets report that approximately 85 percent of dogs over the age of 4 have some type of periodontal disease, a painful oral disease that can lead to tooth loss and infection. Good news? All of these problems can be prevented with regular dental cleanings and professional examinations.
Just like regular brushing or a daily walk outside, dental care should be something your dog looks forward to every day. But it won’t happen overnight; It takes most dogs a while to get used to someone sniffing their mouth. Most owners need to get used to the idea too! Ideally, dental care should be introduced when your dog is still a puppy. But don’t worry if you’ve just realized that your adult dog’s teeth need some TLC. Just take a slow and patient approach and remember that lots of love and treats will go a long way in winning him over.
Most experts agree that daily brushing is ideal, but if that’s not realistic, try brushing three to four times a week. And don’t be hotheaded: If your puppy only has the patience to brush half his teeth today and the other half tomorrow, that’s fine. Just remember which half you did each day!
Pet Dental Care
Below, we’ll tell you what products you’ll need and how your dog can help brush his teeth without even knowing it.
Unfortunately, dogs can’t take care of their teeth on their own, but they can help by chewing on the right food. A good, long chew can help remove plaque and grime, and most dogs are happy to obey. Natural options include rawhide or bone. Bones are the softer bone that is softer on the teeth. Never feed harder foods such as hoof bones or fillets, ribs or hams as they can break teeth.
Some dogs won’t chew on these natural options, but many enjoy gnawing on artificial bones or chew toys. Try a variety to see what your dog likes. Always choose rubber or nylon toys with rough or uneven surfaces that are large enough to not be a choking hazard. The chew toy should be slightly flexible, not hard.
Dogs love to eat, and crunchy treats and chews can help them in their overall endeavors. Look for the “VOHC Approved” seal on any toothpaste, which means it meets the brushing protocols set forth by the Veterinary Oral Health Council. While these items don’t replace the need to brush, they can help reduce unwanted buildup.
How To Brush Your Pet’s Teeth To Maintain Good Dental Health
You probably don’t want to share your toothbrush, so once you’re ready to start brushing, buy some supplies for it:
– Dog toothbrush: A human toothbrush works well; Choose a soft size that fits your mouth. Dog toothbrushes have more angles and also come in a pointed shape that slides over the tip of a finger. Choose a type that you both like.
– Dog toothpaste: Your dog is unlikely to learn to spit, so you need a toothpaste that is safe to swallow. This excludes human formulas that contain abrasives and detergents that you shouldn’t ingest. Also, you prefer dog toothpaste options with poultry or seafood.
– Tissues or tissues: If there is no time for a thorough cleaning, brushing the teeth and gum line will remove some bacteria and food. You can use a dog dental pad, available at most pet stores, or a simple piece of gauze wrapped around your finger.
Amazon.com: Grooming Wipes Pet Teeth Cleaning Wipes For Dogs & Cats,dental Wipes For Dogs Teeth Remove Bad Breath By Removing Plaque And Tartar Buildup No Rinse Dog Finger Toothbrush Disposable Dog Finger
Now you’ve gathered your supplies and committed to forming good dental habits. Your next goal is to convince the dog.
Ready to start cleaning? Don’t expect your dog to sit and spread out wide. You might think that brushing your teeth is the same as taking a bath. Depending on your dog’s age and background, it may take a few days to a few weeks to get him to cooperate. Take your time.
Spend some time in his mouth first. Turn your finger into a treat by spreading something delicious like peanut butter, baby food, or fat-free yogurt. Let him lick your finger while you gently rub his teeth and gums. Reapply the tasty treat as needed, trying to part your lips to expose more teeth.
He will also need to get used to you holding his muzzle. Gently place one hand under the lower jaw and the other on the upper jaw and place the hands like this for a few seconds. Gradually manipulate his mouth by parting his lips and then gently opening his jaw.
How To Freshen Dog Breath
After you’ve cleaned everything, choose a quiet, leisurely time of day and then get out your brushing equipment. To get started:
Part your dog’s lips and then brush the visible teeth with your finger or a toothbrush. A touch of toothpaste can pique their interest.
Gradually increase the number of teeth you brush and reapply the toothpaste as needed. Remember to brush along the gum line. A circular motion works best.
Once this has been going well for a few days, try gently opening his jaw to clean his back teeth. Don’t worry if you find it too difficult to clean the inside of your teeth; In most breeds, periodontal disease is most often found on the outside of the teeth.
The Importance Of Dental Health
End it with a special reward (a game, a gift, or a favor) even if the process didn’t go very well. You want your dog to form a positive association with scratching, so a happy ending this time can make it more enjoyable next time.
At some point, you’ll need to take your pet to the vet, so read on to learn how to do it easily.
Whether it’s for a professional cleaning or because your dog stayed up all night with a toothache, make her trip to the dentist as comfortable as possible.
Start by researching veterinary dentists in your area. Unless it’s an emergency, ask your vet or other pet owners for advice. If it’s convenient, try asking your dog to say “hello” to the staff, sniff the waiting room, and try a treat. This will allow both of you to visit the place and will help your dog feel more comfortable in the future.
Amazon.com: Wellnergy Pets Dental Care Water Additive For Dogs & Cats 2 Pack
When you make your appointment, find out everything you’re interested in, whether you’ll be able to keep your pet, whether they accept your veterinary insurance (if you have it), or any other questions you’re interested in. Be sure to ask if there are any instructions you need to follow before your visit. When you have a dental procedure, including a cleaning, you may be anaesthetized, so you need to be prepared accordingly.