February is National Pet Dental Health Month! Dental care for our pups is often overlooked, but it is a vital part of keeping your pets happy and healthy. Poor dental hygiene can lead to some pretty serious health issues, so preventative care is especially important for a long life!
The good news is that keeping up with your dog's pearly whites is not too hard! Here are some tips on staying on top of dental disease:
1. Give your dog chew snacks! Keep in mind, not all chewy snacks are created equal. Look out for snacks that have earned the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) seal of approval. These are snacks that actually help your pup's mouth!
2. Brush your dog's teeth daily! A soft-bristled toothbrush or finger toothbrush along with toothpaste is all you need. Be sure to get specially formulated toothpaste for dogs-- your human toothpaste can potentially be harmful to animals! While it may seem daunting to brush your dog's teeth every day, it's an easy habit to get started. Start off slowly and allow your dog time to get used to the new routine!
3. Get to the vet. Many vets recommend bringing in dogs over the age of 3 in for a dental cleaning yearly. Your veterinarian can craft an individualized plan with you based on your dog's needs!
With regular maintenance and care, you can help your dog live a longer, healthier life!
