Pets are an important part of our lives for many years.  Good dental care is essential to extend your pet’s life span and assure a good quality of life.  Just like you, your pet needs to receive daily dental care at home.  It is best to begin home care when the puppy or kitten is between 8 and 12 weeks; however, it is never to late.  If the animal has accumulated tartar, it must be removed ultrasonically at the clinic.  This process, called a prophylaxis, will allow you to start your home care with teeth that are free of plaque and tartar and will make your efforts easier and more effective.

 The Daily brushing process should be pleasant for both you and your pet,  Many pets enjoy the added attention while many owners look forward to the close quality time spent with their companion animal.

 The supplies you need are a toothbrush, preferably one specially designed for dogs and cats and a pet dentifrice.  Most animals accept brushing very well if they are introduced to the procedure in a calm and patient way.  The best way is as follows:

 DAY 1:   Gently pet and scratch the muzzle, slowly lifting the lip for about 30 seconds.                   Reward with a treat at the end of session.

 DAY 2:   Repeat as above except gently run your finger over the pet’s teeth for about 30 to 45   seconds. Reward with a treat and praise.

 DAY 3:   Repeat Day 2, adding 15 seconds time to running your finger over the pet’s teeth.  Always reward with praise and treat.

 DAY 4:   If all is going well, insert finger over teeth for 30 seconds and gently insert toothbrush and run over teeth for 30 seconds.

DAY 5:   Repeat as above and increase the time of the toothbrush in the pet’s mouth by 30 second increment.

DAY 6:   Repeat as above, adding a small amount of dentrifice to the   toothbrush and gently pass over the pet’s teeth.

DAY 7:   You know your pet best of all.  If you feel the he/she is accepting the brushing well, gradually increase the brushing time until you are able to spend at least one minute on each side.

 At any time that the animal is resistant, stop and wait until the next day.   If the pet is still resistant contact our office and our dental technician will be happy to assist you.

Helpful Hints

• ·         Be patient.  Take time with the process or else the pet may become resistant.

• ·         Praise the pet.  It’s a new experience and praising the pet will make him or her more receptive.

• ·         Reward the pet with treats at the end of each session.  Remember, always make it fun!

• ·         Stop immediately if the pet shows any signs of aggression. Call the hospital for further professional advice.

• ·         Human toothpaste is for humans and NOT pets.  It is common for human toothpaste to cause stomach problems and even vomiting.

• ·         Cleaning at home will decrease the need for professional dental care.

• ·         Remember, always make it fun!