Brush up on your pet's dental regime

H FRES H T BREA Pet Dent® products ensure that your pet's oral hygiene is never a concern again. Scientifically formulated and tested by veterinarians, the Pet Dent® range for dogs and cats protect against plaque, bacteria and gum disease.

They leave your pet's breath smelling clean and fresh. Pet Dent® Toothpaste, Oral Gel, Fresh Breath Oral Rinse, Toothbrush and Finger Brush.

All available from your veterinarian or veterinary retail outlet.

Proudly supplied by

www.eurovetsworld.com

BRUSH UP ON YOUR PET'S DENTAL REGIME Just like us, dogs and cats need dental care - effective care at home as well as professional care from the veterinarian.

PetDent® offers the complete oral health solution for pets and provides 10 steps on how to brush your pet's teeth.

Step One: Find the Right Time Start early with your dog as a puppy. Try and choose a time when your dog is calm and relaxed. Set a routine. Working up to brushing daily is ideal. If the mouth is healthy, even three days a week at 10 minutes can make a difference. Without brushing, plaque can build up, putting your dog at risk for bad breath, gum disease, and tooth decay.

Step Two: Gather Your Tools You'll want to use a toothbrush made for dogs and cats. Use either the: l PetDent® Finger brush - This works well for small breeds. l For larger dogs - use the PetDent® Long Handled Toothbrush (for better reach and to keep hands away from the teeth).

Use dog friendly toothpaste such as PetDent® Toothpaste. Never use human

toothpaste; some contain Xylitol which is known to be toxic to dogs. When brushing isn't always possible, try PetDent® Oral Gel, an alternative treatment which can be applied to teeth and gums with your fingers.

In-between brushing use PetDent® Fresh Breath Oral Rinse to keep mouth bacteria in check and to freshen up your pet 's breath.

Step Three: Assume the Position Make sure you're in a spot where your dog is comfortable. Don't take a threatening stance.

Instead, try kneeling or sitting in front of him.

If he seems upset, stop, and try again later.

Step Four: Getting the Gums Ready Test your dog's willingness to have you touch his mouth by rubbing your finger along his upper gums and teeth. This will help him get used to the feel of something against his teeth. Use light pressure.

Step Five: Test the PetDent® Oral Gel Put some oral gel on the tip of your finger.

Let your pet lick the gel so that he can get used to the texture and taste. Then start applying it to teeth with your finger. Once

your pet is used to this - introduce the finger brush with the gel.

Step Six: Now try out the PetDent® Toothpaste & Toothbrush With the toothpaste and the toothbrush Lift his upper lip and angle the bristles at 45 degree so they reach the gum line and get ready to brush.

Step Seven: Use a Circular Motion Brush in small circles, getting top and bottom on each side.

Step Eight: Focus on the Plaque Brush a few teeth at a time, working up to more each day.

Step Nine: Be Reassuring Keep the mood light while you're brushing your dog's teeth. Talk to him throughout the procedure.

Step Ten: End on a Positive Note When you're finished brushing your dog's teeth, reward him with his favourite treat.

WARNING SIGNS OF POOR ORAL HEALTH Many pets with dental disease suffer in silence, but others show acute pain while eating. Some pets act depressed.

In older animals, owners may mistakenly blame these signs on "old age". Pet's teeth are normally white and smooth. Healthy gums are pink and smooth and adhere tightly to the teeth.