Even for the best-intentioned pet owners, many aspects of good pet care go by the wayside. To make sure that this doesn’t happen, the pet medicine experts at Waipio Pet Clinic in Waipahu, HI want to tell you about some important parts of pet care that should get more attention.

Here are some commonly overlooked aspects of pet health:

• Teeth: Both cats and dogs should have their teeth brushed regularly with a soft brush. Pets will suffer from plaque and calculus buildup just like humans. Brushing an animal's teeth is a tricky skill to master, but with help and advice from Waipio Pet Clinic, it gets easier. There are also many chewable products you can buy to aid in plaque removal.

• Nails: A scratching post isn't always enough to keep claw growth at bay. Both cats and dogs benefit from regular nail clipping, especially when they mainly live indoors. Without regular clippings, nails will tear and break; torn nails are very painful for pets and can easily become infected. Clipping is challenging at first, but the expert veterinarians at Waipio Pet Clinic can teach you the safest and kindest way to do it.

• Fur: Brushing your pet's fur is a good way to keep your pet's coat shiny and beautiful. Brushing can also be a good way to monitor fleas on your pet. Some pet owners skip brushing because their pets don't appear to enjoy it — but don't let that stop you from fulfilling this important task. Ask Waipio Pet Clinic for advice on making brushing a more enjoyable experience for your furry friend.

For more tips to keep your pets healthy or to schedule an appointment call Waipio Pet Clinic at (808) 676-2205. You can also go online to learn more about available pet services.