Top 3 Pet Dental Care Tips from Our Indianapolis Veterinarian
Having a furry friend at home brings so much joy to families across the country. Here at Avalon Animal Clinic in Indianapolis, we want to make sure that our local pet families have all the knowledge they need to care for their own four-legged friends. Did you know that taking care of your pet's dental health is just as important as your own oral hygiene? Here are our top three tips for pet dental care.
1. Visit the Veterinarian for a Teeth Cleaning
Just like with your own teeth, it's important that your pet visits the vet regularly for dental check-ups and teeth cleanings. Every six months, schedule a visit to the vet to take care of your pet's teeth. You can even make this easy to remember by scheduling it at the same time as your own six-month dental check-up! Consistent visits help reduce the amount of plaque and tarter build up on your pet's teeth. It also makes it easier to spot potential health problems and provide early diagnoses.
2. Brush Your Pet's Teeth Every Day
Also just like humans, brushing your pet's teeth every day should become a habit. This may sound daunting, but the more you work at it, the easier it will get. Start with a soft-bristled toothbrush or your finger and dab a small amount of pet-approved toothpaste on it. Toothpaste for humans is meant to be spit out, and digesting it can cause problems for our pets. Brushing your pet's teeth may take some getting used to, for you and your pet, so start with short sessions and gradually lengthen them as your pet becomes more comfortable.
3. Monitor Your Pet's Diet
The food and treats you feed to your pets directly impact their oral health. There are many diets that improve dental health by using special kibble that has more cleaning power than regular food. Ask your vet if one of these diets is right for your pets. Also consider the treats your pet consumes. Some chew treats are designed to care for your pet's oral health. Look for the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) seal of approval. This shows that the product is effective at controlling plaque and tarter.
Schedule Your Pet's Appointment Today!
Taking care of your pet's dental health is important to their overall well-being. If you're looking for a new vet, please contact us at Avalon Animal Clinic of Indianapolis. You can also call us at (317) 842-4618 to learn more about our services and schedule an appointment! We look forward to seeing you in our Shadeland Avenue office!