Hints From Heloise

Mon., March 11, 1996

King Features Syndicate

Dear Heloise: I have a young puppy and never thought much about dental care for him.

Is it true that a dog’s teeth should be brushed? His teeth look great, nice and white, so should I bother brushing them or wait until he’s older? - Theresa Meacham, Canton, Ohio

Our friends at the American Veterinary Medical Association advise brushing your dog’s teeth now while he is a puppy to help control plaque and tartar buildup.

Also, starting when a dog is older can be more difficult since he may not sit still and accept brushing. Most veterinarians can supply you with a toothbrush and special dog toothpaste (Don’t use yours - Heloise) and show you the correct way to brush your dog’s teeth to keep dental problems at a minimum. Give him a treat after you’re finished. He’ll look forward to the next time. - Heloise

Local journalism is essential.

Give directly to The Spokesman-Review's Northwest Passages community forums series -- which helps to offset the costs of several reporter and editor positions at the newspaper -- by using the easy options below. Gifts processed in this system are tax deductible.

Meet Our Journalists

Jesse Tinsley

Meet Jesse Tinsley. As a certified drone pilot, this veteran Spokesman-Review photographer often can be seen capturing beautiful aerial photographs of our region. Sometimes though, the job requires getting down with the dogs.
Jim Meehan

Jim Meehan is no stranger to Zag Nation. As the lead writer covering the Gonzaga men’s basketball team, he tells the stories behind the game and gets fans a bit closer to their favorite players.
Molly Quinn

There is no artist in Spokane like Molly Quinn. Her whimsical style is instantly recognizable to readers of The Spokesman-Review. She has painted gorgeous illustrations that instantly elevate the journalism accompanying it. She brings to life the stories that defy photography. She makes our pages better.
Rob Curley

Spokesman-Review editor Rob Curley loves to talk with people and learn about their lives, whether it's a best-selling author or a stranger he meets downtown on his walk to lunch. It's that inquisitive nature combined with a playful sense of storytelling that helps make our newspaper different than most.