Pet health care 'must involve teeth brushing'

Tuesday, 23 February 2010 19:10

Dental maintenance must form part of all dogs' pet health care regimens.

This is according to veterinary dental specialist Dr Brett Beckman, who recently spoke to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution about periodontal disease and the risk posed by this to canines.

Owners should consider brushing a dog's teeth as important as cleaning their own, although special pet toothpaste should be used.

Dr Beckman said it was crucial to implement this routine, because it is one of the only ways to prevent periodontal disease.

And starting to do so when the pooch is still a puppy is usually beneficial for you and them, he added.

However, asking a vet for advice could be useful.

"If you've got a [pet] that is aggressive, don't even try it. You don't want to put yourself in danger to brush your pet's teeth."

Pet insurance policies usually include regular veterinary check-ups, when dental queries and problems can be discussed.

Animal Friends are a specialist pet insurance company providing dog insurance and cat insurance to British pet owners since 1999 and we now offer horse insurance too.

Posted by Elaine