Getting to grips with a toothbrush isn't easy when you're a dog. But that didn't seem to prove much of a problem for Oscar, a four-year-old Hungarian Viszla, when he went along for a dental check and tips on avoiding tooth decay.

Smile, please - a brush with hygiene for Oscar, four Picture: ROBIN WOOSEY

Dogs, cats and rabbits are to get special treatment as part of National Petsmile Month. Among vets taking part is the Cherrydown practice in Cherrydown West, Basildon.

Veterinary nurse Andrea Elphick said: "Animals' teeth need cleaning or checking every day.

"You can clean your pets' teeth with a toothbrush but not human toothpaste. There is special paste you can buy and there are special foods which can help."

Published Wednesday, April 23, 2003

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