Smile: dental tips for your dog’s teeth
We're constantly reminded about the importance of our own dental care, but what about our pets' teeth?
Last year, Battersea Dogs and Cats Home’s vet team performed dental procedures on more than 1,800 animals that came through its doors - a 13% increase from 2015. This makes dental procedures one of the most common procedures performed at their new veterinary hospital and the charity is advising owners not to brush off advice about their dog or cat's dental hygiene.
One of their patients was Molly, a 14-year-old Shih Tzu, whose age and lack of oral hygiene had left her teeth in poor condition. Vets were required to extract some of her teeth so that she could lead a happier, pain-free life.
By taking care of your pet's teeth you can prevent gum disease and other painful conditions and Battersea has offered the following advice:
Mildly abrasive dog chews are a good way of removing tooth plaque,
A healthy balanced diet can also help prevent the build-up of plaque and tartar,
Teeth brushing is one of the ways to keep gums and teeth healthy. Always speak to a vet for the best way to proceed before starting this as not all pets like being handled around their mouth.
Shaun Opperman, the Veterinary Director at Battersea, advises, "Regular dental check-ups at your own private vet is the best way to help keep your animal’s teeth healthy. If there are any concerns about a pet’s dental health, always consult your own vet. If you are going to brush your pet’s teeth - never use human toothpaste as fluoride is poisonous to dogs."
Last year, Battersea Dogs and Cats Home’s vet team performed dental procedures on more than 1,800 animals that came through its doors - a 13% increase from 2015. This makes dental procedures one of the most common procedures performed at their new veterinary hospital and the charity is advising owners not to brush off advice about their dog or cat's dental hygiene.
One of their patients was Molly, a 14-year-old Shih Tzu, whose age and lack of oral hygiene had left her teeth in poor condition. Vets were required to extract some of her teeth so that she could lead a happier, pain-free life.
By taking care of your pet's teeth you can prevent gum disease and other painful conditions and Battersea has offered the following advice:
Mildly abrasive dog chews are a good way of removing tooth plaque,
A healthy balanced diet can also help prevent the build-up of plaque and tartar,
Teeth brushing is one of the ways to keep gums and teeth healthy. Always speak to a vet for the best way to proceed before starting this as not all pets like being handled around their mouth.
Shaun Opperman, the Veterinary Director at Battersea, advises, "Regular dental check-ups at your own private vet is the best way to help keep your animal’s teeth healthy. If there are any concerns about a pet’s dental health, always consult your own vet. If you are going to brush your pet’s teeth - never use human toothpaste as fluoride is poisonous to dogs."
