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Petrodex Finger Toothbrush

Finger-gloves for feline/canine dental care

The biggest advantage of this brush is that it allows precise control and placement, and the bristles are soft rubber, so they are gentler on the gums, drawing less protest. A dog won’t stand still for two minutes of brushing, so it allows you to cover all the surfaces in a shorter time. I have a miniature schnauzer, and find it is easier to maneuver a smaller brush like this than a long handled brush. (Note: I don’t use both fingers at once because his mouth is too small)

My vet first gave the Jorvet pet toothbrush to me, and I wanted to buy another to put in a travel grooming box, but I bought the Petrodex because I couldn’t find the Jorvet at any of my local pet stores. It looks and feels the same, but the bristles are a tiny bit shorter and may be a little stiffer (they are still softer than a conventional dog toothbrush). Both brushes get the same results and the dog responds the same to both (he doesn’t shy away at brushing time, though I should mention I put poultry-flavoured dog toothpaste on the brush and let him lick it up before sticking my finger in his mouth, praising him throughout the ordeal). With both brushes I find it difficult to rinse out the bristles in the sink unless I run my finger over them. Since the Petrodex’s bristles are shorter (by about 0.5mm) it makes them easier to rinse off. Other than that, my bare skin doesn’t touch the toothpaste or mouth at all.

-- Sarah Cooke 06/7/07

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