The team at Animals R Special cares deeply about your pet’s dental health! Did you know that 70% of pets over 3 years old have dental disease? Our staff can recommend diets, teeth brushing with poultry-flavored toothpaste, and special mouthwashes to help you fight the tartar at home. We can provide complete ultrasonic dental cleanings, fluoride polishing, fluoride treatments, and any needed extractions for your pet. Keeping your pet’s teeth healthy keeps the overall pet healthy by cutting the risk of heart, kidney, and liver disease.
1. How often should you brush your pet’s teeth? DAILY!
All you need is a pet-friendly toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush. Make sure that the toothbrush is made for pets or a human toothbrush that is the correct size for your pet’s mouth. They even sell finger brushes that will help with dogs with smaller mouth or cats.
2. Make sure to use toothpaste that’s made for pets!
Human toothpaste contains chemicals like xylitol that can be toxic to your pet. You’ll find that the pet toothpaste comes in fun flavors like chicken or beef, gross to us but your pets will love it!
3. Start slow.
If you have not been brushing their teeth daily, starting off may be rough. Start with letting them taste the new toothpaste on your finger, make it fun. Next, slowly start rubbing their teeth and gums with the toothpaste to get them used to it. Be sure to offer plenty of praise during the process to make sure they know they’re doing the right thing. Once they’re enjoying the process, substitute your finger with a toothbrush and continue the praise. Soon enough they’ll associate brushing their teeth with positive experiences.
4. There will be tough moments, don’t give up!
The first few days will not be easy but don’t give up. Continue with praise and going slow to get your pet comfortable. Soon enough, it will be a routine that both of you enjoy! No more bad breath!
If you have any questions about pet dental care or would like to speak to a member of our staff about a dental cleaning, please contact us today!
