Some helpful dental tips to keep your pet's mouth healthy.

• For puppies and kittens provide chew toys while they are teething.  Your hands are not chew toys and can send mixed messages to your pet.
• Have your veterinarian examine your pet's mouth annually.  Senior patients should be evaluated every 6 months, unless otherwise directed.
• Brushing your pet's teeth can be a challenge.  Start slowly with your finger mimicking a toothbrush, and gradually move on to a finger toothbrush and so on.  Try to brush daily if not weekly.
• If your pet is aggressive or is difficult to brush, there are oral rinses and other dental products your veterinarian can assist you with.  This can help decrease the amount of bacteria in your pet's mouth
• Offer rabbits, guinea pigs, and rodents something to chew on.  These animals have teeth that continuously grow.
• Please monitor your bird's beak for overgrowth.  This can be a sign of an improper diet or disease.  Please see your veterinarian for a beak trim and consult.
• Watch for an increase in saliva, matted hair around face and paws, food falling out of mouth, or sensitivity or pain with the mouth.  Please make an appointment.

Any questions or concerns, please feel free to call us at 718 875-7007.