At Waipio Pet Clinic in Waipahu, Hawaii, they strive to help dogs and cats live long, happy lives with a combination of preventative care and pet surgery when needed. One of the most important parts of being a cat or dog owner is remembering to take care of their teeth as proper mouth care is essential to a pet’s overall well-being. Here are five oral dog care tips from the vet at Waipio Pet Clinic:

• Use The Right Tools At The Right Time: Invest in a proper pet toothbrush and toothpaste. Finger toothbrushes work nicely for smaller dogs. Never use human toothpaste on your pet as it can cause stomach issues. Always try to brush your pet’s teeth when they are calm and relaxed, establishing a routine they grow accustomed to.
• Position Yourself Properly: Don’t hover above your pet. Instead, kneel or sit directly in front of your dog. If your dog grows anxious and upset as you brush, stop and try again later.
• Test The Waters: Before going for a full brushing session, test your dog’s reaction. Run your finger along their gums so they get comfortable with the sensation, and let them try a taste of the toothpaste on your finger.
• Angle The Bristles: Once your dog is used to the sensation of your finger on the gums, try brushing. Angle the bristles so they hit both the teeth and the gum line. Use small circular motions as you brush and focus on removing plaque on the inside and outside of the teeth.
• Encourage Your Dog: When brushing, keep the mood upbeat. Talk to your dog encouragingly throughout the process and be sure to reward them afterwards with a nice treat! Try to brush your dog’s teeth daily for optimal health. If you have questions or concerns about your home brushing, don’t forget to consult your vet during your next pet hospital visit.

If you live in the Waipahu, Hawaii, area and you’re looking for a professional pet hospital, specializing in dog care, cat health, and pet surgery, call Waipio Pet Clinic today at (808) 676-2205 to schedule your pet’s next appointment. To find out more about their commitment to animal wellness and excellent cat and dog care tips, be sure to check out their website.