All dogs and cats can benefit from daily home dental care. Introduce a brushing program gradually, keep sessions short and positive. These simple hints will help you brush your pet's teeth.

• Start as young as possible, introduce this routine in your pet's life as soon as you get him. But don't worry, you CAN teach old dogs and cats new tricks!
  
  
• Always make sure you are using toothpaste designed for pets, people toothpaste could irritate your pet's stomach. Specially flavoured toothpaste designed for pets is available from your veterinarian. The primary function of the toothpaste is not to clean the teeth, but simply to serve as a tasty treat to facilitate the brushing process.
  
  
• Get your pet used to accepting your handling of the mouth and muzzle area. When this is accomplished you can start massaging your pets gums and teeth. Start with the canines and gradually work around the whole mouth. Do short training sessions every day for 2-3 weeks. Towards the end of these training weeks slowly introduce a small amount of the tooth paste to your finger. Keep the sessions short and positive. Stop before your pet starts to show dislike. ALWAYS praise and reward with treats. You will now be ready to introduce the tooth brush.
  
  
• Always wet the bristles of the toothbrush before using it, place a line of toothpaste on it and press it into the bristles. For the first few days concentrate on the canines using a gentle up and down movement. Gradually, apply more pressure while brushing. When both of you feel comfortable, move on to the rest of the teeth. Lift the lips when needed to reach the teeth. ALWAYS praise.
  
  
• Once your pet is used to tooth brushing you can try introducing an electric tooth brush. Using an electric toothbrush will give great results. Properly introducing this device to your pet is crucial. At first use the electric toothbrush without turning it on. Then turn it on from far away and gradually come closer to your pet. ALWAYS praise. This will be done slowly over a couple of days without forcing your pet. Brushing your pet's teeth will only take a few minutes once you and your pet are comfortable with this procedure. You will be contributing to your pet's health and strengthening the bond between you.