My vet wants me to put my hands in my dogs mouth and brush its teeth?!
Question:
My vet wants me to put my hands in my dogs mouth and brush its teeth?
Its like handling a banana slug and I can't do it. Then she gave me a huffy look. Isn't there a spray I can spray on the dog teeth, cause I can't go there..................
Answers:
Unfortunately, dental care is a VERY important aspect of your dog's health, and it would be in your best interest as well as your dog's best interest, to start brushing asap! Proper dental hygiene ensures that your pet won't suffer any unnecessary, and sometimes painful, tooth decay - and ensures that YOU don't pay for costly tooth extractions!
Usually you would start to get a dog used to brushing at a young age so that they don't give you as much trouble with it as you seem to be having... but in your case, you may have to just get some assistance in brushing. Perhaps there is another family member who can help you? If you have your dog sit, and have someone restrain him/her from behind to steady his/her head, you may have better luck.
Some other tips and tricks for doggie dental care are the 'dental bones', prescription dental diets, and dental chew toys you can find in pet stores. They are formulated to help clean your pets teeth and prevent "junk" from building up on them. But these products certainly don't prevent the need for brushing! :) (sorry!)