FAQ
What are your credentials?
I worked as the co-manger for BC for the largest Canadian Non Sedation teeth cleaning company for 5 years. At that company I trained under the principal and helped build and maintain that company brand as the longest serving employee before launching my own venture in 2020. I personally served clients in BC, AB and ON and was trained according to the guidelines of the only accredited program recognized in North America taught by a Veterinarian in this field. I have personally worked on and handled 1000s of dogs during my career as an AFP. Prior to that my background includes the BCSPCA, a stint in a human dentistry office, and post secondary studies in equine massage.
*Please note that Non Sedation Services are an unregulated profession in Canada. There is currently NO recognized certification in this field. Experience counts and be sure to ask questions to educate yourself on how many dogs your practitioner has successfully completed*
How do you keep the dogs calm?
We try to keep energy calm and positive, and the dogs respond to that. We’ll stop and give a minute to rest if needed and try to remain responsive to their stress levels while we work. Smaller dogs will be swaddled in a towel. Owners are given the opportunity to watch from a safe distance, or to check in quietly during the process.
What kind of dogs might benefit from your service?
Any dog can benefit from a cleaner mouth but starting earlier is always better as this type of service is no a replacement for regular Veterinary care. If you have a younger pup who is just starting to accumulate some tartar and you want to get ahead of the game, booking a first cleaning with us anywhere between the ages of 1.5 and 3 is usually a good rule of thumb for most breeds. The smaller the dog generally, the more home care will be needed to keep their mouths happy. So brushing early and often is your best defence! We also see a lot of senior dogs, or dogs with health issues whose parents are looking for alternatives to traditional veterinary anesthetic dental care. While we do offer an alternative, we are not always an option and do refer to the Vet frequently. We’ll always do our best to be honest and forthright about anything suspicious discovered on the initial look see, and give you the opportunity to stop the appointment at no cost.
What makes a dog NOT a candidate?
The majority of the time, (95%) the reason is that our services are not appropriate for your dog’s needs and your dollars will be better invested with your Veterinarian If this happens to be the case for your dog, we’ll provide you with a report and pictures for your use.
The other 5% reason(s) would be aggressive behaviour or undue stress.
How stressful is it for my dog? Will there be any after effects?
The stress experienced by your pet during the service is similar to what they might experience with a groomer or Vet. If your dog can safely perform these activities, they can mange also, and often times, much better!! We have heard countless times how owners are amazed at the way we have been able to get into their dog’s mouth.
The after effects are similar again to a grooming or vet visit, so perhaps a bit tired and cuddly but most dogs happily snuggle with us after we are done the cleaning.
We do give parent approved treats before/after to create happy memories, and also brush with coconut oil (unless contraindicated) so there is a slight chance of an upset tummy, but most clients report no ill effects post service.
What happens if I get referred to the Veterinarian?
You’ll receive your report card and photos electronically, to assist you in your conversation with them and we’ll put you in the system to touch base at a later date. If the Twoof Fairy comes to your home to provide the service there will be a cost incurred for time and travel.
What happens if my dog has all their teeth pulled? How will they eat?
Dogs have no problems adapting to being toothless with a little bit of help from their parents. You can easily add a bit of warm water or broth to some kibble to help soften it for them. Or you can look into wet, raw, or home cooked meals as well. They will still gum a bully stick or bone if given the chance.
What can I do at home to help my dog?
The number one thing we always say is “brush the ones you want to keep”!! Making a daily/semi weekly brushing routine is essential for maintaining your dog’s health over their lifespan. We cannot stress it enough for the smaller toy breeds especially, and sadly even with a proactive approach, many of the little ones lose several teeth even with multiple veterinary procedures. Providing safe chews are also a great way to keep your dog’s mouth happy.