February is National Pet Dental Health Month and at Garden Valley Veterinary Hospital, we’re celebrating by putting the spotlight on your best friend’s smile.

Did you know that hiding behind your pet’s pearly whites can be some seriously dirty secrets? By age three, 80 percent of dogs and 70 percent of cats have some evidence of periodontal disease. At advanced stages, dental disease can significantly impact a pet’s quality of life, making eating difficult due to mouth pain. Plus, bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream and cause heart, liver, and kidney complications.

Keeping up with the cleanliness of your pet’s teeth and their overall dental health can prevent years of discomfort, disease, and lost teeth. Speaking of prevention, one of the best things you as a pet parent can do to ensure your furry friend’s good dental health is brush their teeth on a regular basis.

If you’re intimidated by the prospect of brushing your pet’s teeth, you’re not alone. Here are a few tips to make the process go more smoothly:

• Get comfortable. Instead of standing over your dog, try kneeling or sitting in front of him or her. Practice lifting your pet’s lip to see the teeth and reward with praise.
• Use a toothbrush and toothpaste made for pets. Human toothpaste contains ingredients that may hurt your pet’s stomach. Finger brushes work well for smaller dogs and cats; you’ll need a larger brush with a handle for big dogs.
• Go slow at first. Start with rubbing your pet’s gums and teeth with your finger to see how well they tolerate it. Before using the brush, let them lick some of the toothpaste off your finger or the brush.
• Be gentle. Finish with the bottom front teeth. Focus on the outside of the teeth—the surface facing the cheek is the most prone to plaque and tartar buildup.
• Be patient. Getting used to brushing might take several sessions. Your pet’s gums may bleed a little at first, but it’s only an emergency if bleeding doesn’t stop.

Brushing is a key component of complete dental care for your pet, but sometimes more – like a special diet – is needed. Our nutritionists recommend Purina Pro Plan DH food, whose special crunchy texture has been proven to drastically reduce tartar build-up.

Think your pet could use a dental exam or cleaning? Give us a call at (970) 674-5105 or schedule an appointment and we’ll turn your pet’s frown upside down!