Doggy Dental

A canine dental cleaning done at the vet costs on average $300.  It involves anesthesia, which often makes the procedure undesirable for older dogs.  Teddy is going to be 11 in one month.  This is what her mouth looks like.  And she's never had a dental cleaning in her life!

Just like humans, it's important for your pet to have clean teeth and healthy gums.  Healthy gums are pink.

We keep Teddy's mouth in top shape not only by feeding her a raw diet, but by supplying her with real bones -- not the fake or rawhide variety.  Bones from the butcher.  Her teeth also get brushed every day.  Our preferred toothpastes aren't formulated specifically for pets.  We use fluoride-free organic products.

Prior to her cancer diagnosis, we brushed her teeth about once or twice per week.  Now that we are mindful of how any sort of infection or poor gum health could impact her immune system, we brush once per day.  In addition to brushing for tooth and gum health, it gives us an opportunity to check the color of her gums.  Pale/white gums are a dangerous sign.  By regularly monitoring the color of her gums, we can better gauge how healthy her organs and blood are.

The average dog will need two or more dental cleanings in a lifetime.  In the past, extractions have added to the cost.  This is not something we've had to worry about with Teddy.  It's also much nicer to get doggy kisses from a furbaby who has fresh breath!