Vitally important to your pet's health is home dental care, including brushing your pet's teeth daily if possible.  Although it is easier to start brushing when your dog or cat is young, older animals will also adjust to brushing if you introduce it gently and slowly.

To introduce your pet to the idea of brushing teeth, dip a finger into beef bouillon (for dogs) or tuna water (for cats) or even some flavored pet toothpaste and gently rub along your pet's gums and teeth.  Focusing on the gum line (the area where the gums meet the teeth) start at the front of the mouth, then move to the back upper and lower teeth and gum areas.

You may then introduce gauze over your finger or move to a toothbrush designed for dogs or cats or a very soft, ultra-sensitive toothbrush designed for people.  The bristles should be held at a 45 degree angle to the tooth surface and be moved in an oval motion.  Again, focus on the gum line, as this is where the odor and infection begin.  Never use people toothpastes as this can upset your pet's stomach when they swallow.  (They do not rinse and spit!)

After you have achieved brushing the "outside" of the teeth, you can then move to the "inside" of the teeth.  Gently place your hand over your pet's muzzle from the top and push the toothbrush inside the mouth to brush the inside of the teeth.  Most of the tartar and infection will start on the "outside" of the teeth, so your focus and time should be spent there.

The entire process should only take a minute or two.  Another hint, since pets are very much creatures of habit, brushing your pet's teeth at the same time in the daily routine will make the entire process easier for you and your pet.  Above all, keep sessions short and positive.  With plenty of praise and reassurance, followed by a specific treat or reward your pet will actually look forward to the tooth brushing. 

Annual dental exams by your veterinarian are still very important to maintaining your pet's dental and overall health.

Parker Center Animal Clinic, PCAC,
is a full service veterinary animal hospital located in Parker, Colorado.