If you have pets, you surely want the best for them, which is why you routinely take them to the vet for checkups and vaccinations. But aside from wellness checks, Cincinnati, OH’s best veterinarians at Covedale Pet Hospital say you also need to ensure proper pet dental care. Taking good care of your pet’s teeth includes good home oral hygiene habits and regular dental cleanings.

Take a look at these four pet dental care tips to ensure your furry friend’s oral health stays in check:

• Brush Their Teeth: Dogs and cats should have their teeth brushed several times a week. Regular brushing will help reduce tartar buildup which can lead to tooth decay. You can pick up a pet-friendly toothbrush at most pet stores or at your local animal hospital.
• Give Them Dental Bones & Chew Toys: Bones and chew toys are not only fun for dogs to play with, but they also help to keep their teeth and gums in good condition. Regularly chewing on bones can scrape away soft tartar buildup, and rubber toys are great for gently massaging their gums.

• Take Them For Routine Dental Cleanings: Pets should visit the dentist too, so take them into your veterinarian’s office at least once a year for professional pet dental care. During a dental cleaning, the veterinarian will remove excess plaque that brushing and chew toys can’t remove. Dental checkups will also help catch any oral health problems before they become too serious, like periodontal disease.
• Offer A Healthy Diet: Diet plays an important role in your pet’s dental health, so offer them a healthy, well-balanced diet. You can ask your pet’s vet about specially formulated food that slows the formation of plaque and tartar buildup. It’s also recommended that you avoid giving your pets table scraps.

If you are in the Cincinnati area, schedule a dental checkup with the veterinarians at Covedale Pet Hospital. Call this pet care clinic at (513) 251-4666, or visit their website to send them a direct message. View their list of services in addition to pet dental care, including exams, vaccinations, and surgical services.