KISSABLE DOG!!! Longer Life, Fresher Breath

Dear LOLA: With Christmas just around the corner it is important for my dog and me to leave a lasting impression, a positive one that is. My dog’s bad breath can be memorable to say the least. What are some tips on brushing my dog’s pearly whites and freshening her breath?

Sincerely, HOWL- ITOSIS

Dear HOWL-ITOSIS: With Christmas on our minds many people will be sneaking under the mistletoe for that long awaited smooched. So with that said, no one wants to be caught alone under the mistletoe with miserable breath howling the bad breathe blues. What’s worst is that your bad breath is noticed more than you, not your vibrant “paws-onality” or the fact that you are dressed up in a Santa suit. Because nothing ruins Christmas tidings and a good first impression like bad breathe. Leaving you franticly scouring for a stick of spearmint to freshen up and tame that fiery beast. Instead of cracking open the bubbly you reach over for a bottle of Listerine.

If you haven’t already heard dogs are notorious for having offensive breathe, a smell so bad that will cause any dog owner to drop and play dead. The stench can stop a charging rhino in its track. Oh, that awful dog breath can put a damper on anyone’s holiday spirit, including your dog.

Are you experiencing a case of "good dog", "bad breath"? Is your dog’s bad breath keeping you from planting a big smooch on his adorable face? Are you forced to hide the mistletoe? That unpleasant odor is leaving you wondering where his mouth has been or what died. Perhaps your dog has mistaken the left up toilet lid as an invitation to quench his thirst, even the most sophisticated dog can't resist. You would be insulted if someone said that you have "dog breath". But then, your dog might be insulted, too. Good news, now you and your holiday guest can breath a sigh of relief literally.

Make no bones about it- just like dental care is important for humans, good doggie dental hygiene is just as important. Chew on this! Studies show that good canine dental care supports your dog's overall health and well being. In fact, brushing your dogs teeth 2-3 times a week can add 2-3 years to their life, now that’s a lot of dog years. According to the American Veterinary Dental Society, more then 80% of dogs suffer from periodontal disease by the age of 2. So, help your dog ward off bad breath, gum disease, multiple infections, and heart disease by consistently brushing and getting yearly vet checkups and cleaning, prevention is key. Have a veterinarian check your pet's teeth before you start a tooth-brushing program. Always, consult your vet for your dog’s specific needs.

When was the last time you brushed your dog’s teeth? Are you scratching your head trying to remember? Sure dental chews, kibbles and a hard crunchy biscuit are a good start and can help clean your dog’s teeth. But nothing compares to a good daily brushing to maintain those pearly whites.

Good dental hygiene should start at puppy age, but with a little TLC it’s never to late to get your dog on a daily teeth-cleaning regimen. So start brushen! Because nothing says “I Love You Spot” and Merry Christmas like fresh, clean breath, white teeth and a few more dog years. So give the gift of a healthy smile and kissable breath this season. Hey, you never know! With a beautiful bright smile, your dog may become a poster child for those famous Crest commercials.

Now that your dogs has had it dental vet check-up its time to begin at home. After a while brushing your dogs teeth will become part of you and Fido’s daily routine. So, how do you brush dog’s teeth? Well, before you begin you will need a few helpful tools, a soft bristle toothbrush and doggy toothpaste. Human toothpaste won’t do and should never be used on your dog. Now, that you have everything its time to get started. Here are some easy steps on how you brush your dog’s teeth and getting them to enjoy every minute. With a few practice sessions you will become a pro.

1. Quiet Time- It is important to make sure you and your dog are relaxed. So find a quiet and relaxed place to brush your dog’s teeth and place him or her in a relaxing position. To get me relaxed and make me less squirmy my parents give me a few squirts of Spot Organics Chill Spray prior to the big event.

2. Acquaint your Dog- For the first few sessions don't use a toothbrush. Gently stroke the outside of your dog’s cheeks and gums with your finger. After he or she becomes comfortable with that, place a dab of toothpaste on your finger and let her taste it. We recommended using flavored doggy toothpaste like poultry or vanilla because pets like the taste.

3. Say Hello to the Toothbrush- Place a small amount of toothpaste on the brush. In a slow circular motion, brush one or two teeth and the adjoining gum line. The purpose of this step is to get your dog accustomed to the feel of the brush.

4. Get Brushen!! - Over the next several days, gradually increase the number of teeth brushed. Encourage and speak gently to your dog. It is important to eventually brush the rear teeth where plaque and tartar have a greater tendency to accumulate. Go slowly and gently and (remember puppies and senior dogs have delicate teeth and gums). In the beginning your dog will fuss just don’t get discouraged and give-up because their health depends on it. Build up to about 30 seconds per side. Be sure to brush the big teeth way in back.

Important: PRAISE, PRAISE, PRAISE & BE PATIENT! Just keep in mind that this is a new experience for your dog and he or she may be hesitant & fearful. It is important to be patient and caring through the entire process so as not to make your dog hate the brushing sessions. Proceed slowly and gently. Stop each session while it is still fun and lavishly praise your dog afterwards and give them treats. She will soon start looking forward to tooth brushing and it will become a pleasant activity for both of you.

By following these helpful tips whenever your dog sees and hears you brushing your teeth his or her tail will be eagerly wagging and waiting for their turn.

So, I hope all you pups, young and old have a Happy & Kissable Holiday Season. I normally don't encourage this but go ahead kiss & tell!

Here is a wonderful Breath Buster Cookie Recipe Perfect Gift this season!!

For all you homemakers click to read about a wonderful all natural remedy for doggy bad breath!!


Barkingly yours,

Lola the eco dog

If you have a question or need advice from Lola the eco- dog on ways you & your dog can go green just Twitter or email her at asklola@pawlux.com . Lola the eco-dog is here to help! If you are part of the Twitter community or have not joined please do and once you are friend us up and we will do the same. Just click twitter icon to go to website to sign up. It's FREE!!!!




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