Vet issues warning to anyone giving dogs dental chews and what to use instead

Vet issues warning to anyone giving dogs dental chews and what to use instead An animal welfare expert urged pet owners to make sure they are taking care of their dogs Dog owners have been warned of a 'silent killer' that could put their pets at risk. Amir Anwary, a veterinarian and content creator known online as @Amirthevet, shared the alert in a recent TikTok post. In the video, the animal welfare expert warned pet owners that "dental disease is a silent killer" and explained that dental powder could help them care for their pet's dental health. Amir said: "As a veterinarian, it shocks me how many people do not know that this product exists. "I so often get people coming into the vet clinic saying to me: 'Amir, my dog's teeth are so bad. Their breath is so terrible. What can I do? I've tried brushing the teeth, they won't allow it, and I use dental chews and treats every single week, and they don't seem to be helping." However, issuing a warning, the vet said: "Most dental chews and treats on the market are not going to work. They're completely ineffective. It's really just an unhealthy treat with a few beneficial ingredients sprinkled on top of it. "Brushing is extremely effective, but you have to be able to actually brush your pet's teeth, and that is where a dental powder comes in. It's so easy to use. You sprinkle it over your dog's food, it coats the pellets and as they chew it actively cleans the teeth, softens the plaque and tartar, and freshens the breath." The vet added: "Now mind you, if your dog has really, really bad teeth, a dental powder won't help. You need to go into the vet clinic and have a professional cleaning, but for milder cases and for really stinky breath, a dental powder works so, so well." The RSPCA website said: "Keeping your dog's teeth clean is important, as ignoring it can lead to plaque build-up and dental problems. Dental disease is very common in dogs, second only to ear infections, and can be extremely uncomfortable - much as it would be for us." The charity advises pet owners to speak to their vet before cleaning their dog's teeth. "Before you start cleaning your dog's teeth, it's always best to ask your vet to show you the best way to do this. "Different breeds show varying jaw alignments and how the teeth meet. Flat-faced dogs, like Pugs and Chihuahuas, have poorly aligned jaws, with crowded or absent teeth, and are therefore more likely to suffer from dental disease." Owners need to buy pet-safe toothpaste, as human toothpaste is not suitable for animals. The RSPCA explains: "Buy a dog toothpaste - human ones aren't suitable. You can use a special dog toothbrush that goes over your finger to brush their teeth, but if you don't have one then a child-sized toothbrush is fine."