The task of brushing Jordy's teeth is one that's easy to put off and eventually forget altogether. Procrastinating leads to doggy breath and can cause tooth loss and infection that could eventually affect his heart, liver and kidneys. Dental sprays, though they're no substitute for brushing, can control bacteria that cause plaque, dental disease and bad breath. A variety of doggy oral sprays exist in the pets consumer market, but you can make one of your own.
Pour a cup of boiling water into a glass bowl.
Place four to five sprigs of the fresh parsley into the hot water. Allow it to steep for five minutes.
Remove the parsley from the water and allow it to cool to room temperature.
Pour the cooled water into the spray bottle and screw the sprayer lid into place.
Tips
You won't ruin the spray if you allow the parsley to remain in the water longer than five minutes; you will just make a stronger solution. You can leave the sprigs of parsley in the water until it's cooled to room temperature if you prefer.
This spray will freshen Jordy's breath and is helpful for preventative dental care. However, keep in mind that bad breath can be a symptom of advanced dental problems or digestive issues. Canine mouth sprays, commercial or homemade, shouldn't replace dental exams and professional veterinary cleanings.
In addition to being a breath freshener, parsley can act as a diuretic or a laxative. Avoid those effects by using the parsley spray only two or three times a week as needed and squirting just one or two sprays each time into Jordy's mouth.
Tips
You won't ruin the spray if you allow the parsley to remain in the water longer than five minutes; you will just make a stronger solution. You can leave the sprigs of parsley in the water until it's cooled to room temperature if you prefer.
This spray will freshen Jordy's breath and is helpful for preventative dental care. However, keep in mind that bad breath can be a symptom of advanced dental problems or digestive issues. Canine mouth sprays, commercial or homemade, shouldn't replace dental exams and professional veterinary cleanings.
In addition to being a breath freshener, parsley can act as a diuretic or a laxative. Avoid those effects by using the parsley spray only two or three times a week as needed and squirting just one or two sprays each time into Jordy's mouth.
Items You Will Need
- 1 cup boiling water
- Fresh parsley
- Glass bowl
- Spray bottle
References
- The Complete Book of Home Remedies for Your Dog; Deborah Mitchell
- Dr. Kidd's Guide to Herbal Dog Care; Randy Kidd
- ASPCA: Brushing Your Dog's Teeth
Tips
- You won't ruin the spray if you allow the parsley to remain in the water longer than five minutes; you will just make a stronger solution. You can leave the sprigs of parsley in the water until it's cooled to room temperature if you prefer.
- This spray will freshen Jordy's breath and is helpful for preventative dental care. However, keep in mind that bad breath can be a symptom of advanced dental problems or digestive issues. Canine mouth sprays, commercial or homemade, shouldn't replace dental exams and professional veterinary cleanings.
- In addition to being a breath freshener, parsley can act as a diuretic or a laxative. Avoid those effects by using the parsley spray only two or three times a week as needed and squirting just one or two sprays each time into Jordy's mouth.
Writer Bio
Elle Di Jensen has been a writer and editor since 1990. She began working in the fitness industry in 1987, and her experience includes editing and publishing a workout manual. She has an extended family of pets, including special needs animals. Jensen attended Idaho and Boise State Universities. Her work has appeared in various print and online publications.