Dental Cleanings Keep Your Pet's Smile Healthy and Bright!

Preparing your pet for a dental cleaning appointment is essential for their comfort and safety. Here are some steps you can take to get your pet ready:

1. Schedule an Appointment: Contact your veterinarian to schedule a dental cleaning appointment. Make sure you choose a time when you can be present to drop off and pick up your pet.
2. Pre-Appointment Check-up: Before the dental cleaning, your veterinarian may want to conduct a general health check-up to ensure your pet is fit for anesthesia, which is often used during dental procedures.
3. Fasting: Your vet will likely advise you to withhold food for a certain period before the appointment. This is typically done to prevent aspiration during anesthesia. Follow their instructions carefully regarding when to stop feeding your pet.
4. Water: It's usually okay to allow your pet access to water until shortly before the appointment, but check with your vet to be sure.
5. Exercise: Give your pet some exercise before the appointment to help them relax. A tired pet may be calmer during the process.
6. Comfort Items: Bring along any comfort items your pet may need, such as their favorite blanket or toy, to help them feel more at ease in the unfamiliar environment.
7. Transportation: Ensure you have a secure carrier or leash for transporting your pet to and from the appointment safely.
8. Anxiety Management: If your pet tends to get anxious during vet visits, consider using calming aids recommended by your vet, such as pheromone sprays or calming supplements.
9. Medical History: Be prepared to provide your vet with your pet's complete medical history, including any previous dental issues or procedures.
10. Follow Post-Procedure Instructions: After the dental cleaning, your vet will provide instructions for post-procedure care, such as feeding instructions, medication administration, and how to monitor your pet's recovery. Follow these instructions closely to ensure a smooth recovery process.

By following these steps, you can help prepare your pet for their dental cleaning appointment and ensure they receive the best possible care.