A vet with practices in Surbiton, Shepperton and Teddington is offering free dental check-ups as part of a two-month awareness campaign.

Vet4Life is urging people to be vigilant when looking after their pet’s teeth. Dental disease among cats, dogs and rabbits is one of the most common problems dealt with at its practices.

The awareness campaign is spearheaded by the offer of free dental health checks with a vet nurse at all Vet4Life practices from now until March 29. Nurses will examine pets’ mouths and give advice, if needed, on what treatment may be appropriate.

Ian Stroud, clinical director at Vet4Life, said the aim of the campaign was to encourage pet owners to be aware of the risks faced by animals and to prevent issues going forward.

“Unfortunately, dental disease is extremely common in pets due to a combination of dietary and genetic factors," he said.

"If we didn’t follow our dentist’s advice and look after our teeth by brushing twice a day, think what our mouths and teeth would be like – pets are no different."

Mr Stroud followed up by saying that, if left untreated, seemingly benign plaque build-up in domestic pets can lead to a brown substance called tartar which can be dangerous.

"This can eventually lead to toothache, gingivitis (gum infection) and tooth loss. All these conditions can be very painful and you may see your pet having difficulties eating," he said, adding that regular proactive dental care for dogs, cats and rabbits in particular was essential in order to guard against these issues.

Dog owners meanwhile were alerted by Vets4Life of potential dental dangers to their pet from chewing on what may seem an innocuous object, such as a tennis ball. Softer or rubber balls were recommended as a possible alternative.

Vet4Life has branches in Surbiton, Teddington and Shepperton and further dental hygiene information can be found at website at: www.vet4life.co.uk.