Many people do not realize the importance of caring for their dog’s teeth. As dogs age, the need for dental care increases. The best way to ensure proper dental health for your dog is to start while they are very young.

Many dogs do not like their mouths touched. It is important for you as a dog owner to desensitize them to being handled like this at a very young age. The veterinarian is always going to need to examine your dog’s mouth and you do not want to have problems with this. The best way for you to get your dog used to having his mouth touched is to begin touching it when you first get your pup. Make sure to touch the lips, open the mouth, and touch the teeth in a calm and relaxing way for about five minutes each day until your pup is used to being handled in this way. Make this a regular part of your interaction with your dog so he remains calm when you are doing any kind of preventive dental care.

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When I saw this story on The Poodle (and Dog) Blog, I knew that I had to post about it too. Operation Baghdad Pups is trying to bring home animals found in the war zone. What a wonderful thing to do for the animals, and the human heroes who find them and nurse them back to health. Being in war would be heart wrenching enough without the added heartache of having to leave an animal buddy behind in such dangerous conditions.

Please consider spreading the word about this cause, and if possible, adding some funds to help bring these animals back to the states and into loving homes.

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