Is your dog one of the top five breeds at risk for gum disease? 70 to 80 percent of dogs and cats will develop gum disease by age three. Unfortunately, I’ve had direct experience with this sobering detail. Thankfully, there are things we can start doing right now to turn the tide on pet oral health!
Brushing your pet’s teeth is essential because it helps remove plaque and tartar buildup, which can lead to dental problems such as gum disease, tooth decay, and bad breath. Regular brushing can also help maintain your pet’s overall oral health and prevent the need for costly dental procedures. Our expert tips are going to help you start making a difference today!
When my wife and I married, she brought her pet dog, Lady, into the relationship. Lady was a tough girl – a stray my partner found when opening the door one day. Being the kind person she is, Lady found a home with my spouse immediately! But Lady didn’t trust men, and it took me ages to earn it. Unfortunately, her previous owner had also neglected Lady’s health before living with us.
Simply put, Lady had awful breath, resulting from gum disease and rotten teeth. Not only did they cause her bad breath, but they were also a source of horrible discomfort. Unfortunately, our sweet doggos can’t tell us when they’re hurting – you might never know that your furry friend is in pain. That’s why it’s essential to practice good preventative care. Hopefully, you can avoid the costly surgery we paid for to save her mouth and give her a happier life.
With Sailor, our current good boy, we work hard to ensure that we care for his teeth and provide proper nutrition, exercise, and regular checkups. Our prior experiences with Lady taught us a valuable lesson about why you should brush your dog’s teeth.
Recognizing National Pet Dental Health Month, Trupanion, a renowned medical insurance provider for cats and dogs, provides essential tips for brushing and training. Additionally, Dr. Caroline Wilde, a veterinarian at Trupanion, is offering guidance on maintaining your pet’s dental health.
“Brushing your dog’s teeth may be no different than brushing your teeth,” says Dr. Caroline Wilde, staff veterinarian at Trupanion. “For example, try small circles along the gum line with a soft-bristled toothbrush, or what your veterinarian recommends. Your veterinarian most likely has “starter kits” with toothbrushes and toothpaste. If not, then I would go to the pet store and buy pet toothpaste and toothbrushes, keeping the size of your dog’s mouth in mind when choosing a toothbrush. They also make little finger toothbrushes which some pet owners prefer.”
Brushing Training Guidelines
- Begin brushing as soon as your veterinarian gives the green light; earlier is generally better. Every pet is different, and you should develop a plan that best suits your furry family member.
- Develop a daily routine by brushing at the same time every day, which will make training easier. In my case, we brush Sailor’s teeth when my kids brush their teeth (after all, he’s the fur baby!)
- Make toothbrushing a fun activity that your pet can enjoy with you. Sailor gets lots of praise and attention when brushing, and we try to make it fun.
- Follow your veterinarian’s recommendations for using plaque-reducing products. Our family uses over-the-counter toothpaste for dogs. Your vet might recommend different options.
To brush your pet’s teeth, you will need the following items:
- A soft-bristled toothbrush specifically designed for pets
- Pet toothpaste (not human toothpaste, as it can be toxic to pets)
- Tender Loving Care (TLC) and small treats to make the process enjoyable for your pet
- Patience, as it may take some time for your pet to get used to the process.
With these items, you’ll be ready to care for your pet’s dental health properly.
Every dog is good, but only some have it so easy with oral health. Trupanion shared with me the top five breeds they see on dental claims. But no matter whether you have a lovable mutt like Sailor or a specific breed, you’ll want to ensure they have good oral health.
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniard
- Chihuahua
- Pomeranian
- Pugs
- Yorkshire Terrier
In conclusion, maintaining a dental routine for your pet has numerous benefits. From promoting good oral hygiene to potentially preventing other health issues, brushing your pet’s teeth cannot be overstated. Following the guidelines in this blog post, you can ensure that your furry friend has a healthy and happy smile for years to come!
Pamper your fur baby with pet supplies from Shop LC!