February is National Pet Dental Health Month

Smile wide, Smile bright

Fives smiles I see; such a sight

Healthy teeth, healthy gums

Brush pets’ teeth to keep ‘em white!

-D. Wills-Raftery

Have you brushed your pet's teeth today? While this month celebrates National Pet Dental Health, we shouldn’t need a reminder that as part of our pets’ overall care, we should be paying attention to their teeth, and be giving their chompers a brushing on a frequent basis (you know your pets’ teeth – this could be daily, weekly, monthly, bi-monthly). Your pet having strong teeth and good gums is very important. As with people, broken or rotting teeth can lead to other health issues, gum disease, irritation, discomfort, inflammation, and infection. To avoid a problem from starting, give them a little brush with some pet-friendly toothpaste. You can use either a finger brush (this is the type preferred by the FiveSibes), a standard (pet) toothbrush, a dental sponge, or pad. All of which can be purchased at any pet store.

I like to make the visit to the Hu-Mom “dentist” a fun event, so I incorporate lots of singing and praising so I have their interest (curiosity?) right from the start. Then, I use mint-flavored toothpaste as these furbabies just love the smell of mint. I will put a little spot of it on my finger and let them lick it so they believe it to be a treat! A little sneaky, I know, but they are “kids” after all. If they like it, they will brush! While brushing, I give them a light gum massage and am sure to get not only fronts, but behind the teeth as well. I get in there (and sometimes use a mini-flashlight) and take a good peek at their gumlines and check for any nasty tartar build-up, unusual discoloration, bleeding, or any holes or broken teeth. If there is a problem, it’s time to give the vet a call for further inspection. For some more points on dental care for your pet, check out Doctors Foster and Smith's Pet Education information on “Brushing Teeth and Home Dental Care.” 

Open up and say "Ahhhh!"

After we brush, the FiveSibes engage in some self-licking , as well as some furfamily-style licking of each other (to be certain that every Sibe had the same thing. Heaven knows, they better have the same scent, otherwise, they will let you know with lots of protesting "woos" of their unhappiness.) Then they are off to play, with healthy, minty-fresh teeth.

If your pet doesn’t like the flavor of mint, the toothpaste is also available in some additional tastes as well, including peanut butter, beef, salmon, and malt. Almost every flavor to please the demanding pet palate!

Here is a video from the American Veterinarian Medical Association (AVMA) on the proper technique for brushing your pet’s teeth:

There are also things like dental treats, rawhides, and toys that are “teeth friendly” to aid in helping to keep your canine companion’s teeth and gums healthy. You can check in with your own vet or with AVMA TV (American Veterinarian Medical Association’s online video network) to be sure if the treats or toys you select are safe for your pet.

Until next time, keep brushing and stay healthy!