A non-sedation dental cleaning is appropriate for:
- Dogs that have been examined by a licensed veterinarian and advised to receive a professional dental cleaning
- Dogs with otherwise healthy mouths that would benefit from routine plaque and tartar removal
- Senior dogs or dogs with underlying health conditions for whom general anesthesia may pose increased risk
- Dogs that are generally calm, cooperative, and non-aggressive, without severe anxiety or medical conditions that affect behavior
Why choose a sedation-free dental cleaning for my dog?
Sedation-free dental cleanings are a gentle, stress-free alternative for dogs with an otherwise healthy mouth who don't need full anesthesia. It's safer - especially for older or smaller dogs - and avoids the risks and recovery time associated with putting your pup under. Anesthesia-free means zero risk from sedation. By keeping your dog relaxed and comfortable in their own home, we're able to maintain their dental health between vet visits, without the anxiety, cost, or complications of sedation. It's a natural, effective way to keep those tails wagging and teeth sparkling!
Is a no anesthesia dog dental cleaning safe for my dog?
Yes! Anesthesia-free dental cleanings are a safe and effective option for maintaining oral health, especially for those dogs with an underlying health condition. We only perform the cleaning on dogs who are calm, cooperative and medically suitable. We use gentle handling techniques and an ultrasonic scaler to remove the plaque and tartar without sedation or discomfort. If your dog shows signs of advanced disease, pain, or cannot be safely cleaned while awake, we will recommend veterinary care under anesthesia. Your dog's safety and comfort truly always come first.
Will my dog feel pain?
No. We will only proceed if your dog is comfortable and and as cooperative. We do not force, restrain, or hold dogs down. If your dog shows signs of distress or discomfort, we stop immediately.
What tools do you use to clean my dogs teeth?
For your dog's teeth cleaning, we use an ultrasonic scaler, the same type used in human dentistry, which uses sound waves to gently break down plaque and tartar. Its quiet, safe and non-invasive.
How long does the cleaning take?
Appointments typically take 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the needs of each individual dog. We take as much time as each dog needs to feel comfortable and anxiety-free. We do not rush our appointments.
Do I need to prepare for the appointment?
No, you do not need to prepare for your appointment. We just require a small, quiet, well-lit space where your dog feels comfortable (preferably a bathroom), 3 clean, large bath sheets or beach towels, and your dog's favorite treats or food. We bring everything else. The visit will be just like you are going to get your teeth cleaned - but with belly rubs and treats!
Can my dog eat before the appointment?
No fasting is required becasue no anesthesia or sedation is used. In fact, we often use treats to help your dog feel relaxed and cooperative.
Do dogs need antibiotics before or after a dental cleaning?
In most cases, no. For healthy dogs receiving a routine dental cleaning, antibiotics are typically not necessary. Antibiotics are generally reserved for situations where there is: advanced periodontal (gum) disease, active infection or abcess, recent oral surgery or extractions and/or certain medical conditions such as heart conditions, or those that affect the immune system. In those cases we would advise you at booking your appointment to ask your licensed veterinarian for a preventative prescription.
Do you clean under the gum line?
We remove plaque and tartar along the gumline and tooth surfaces. However, deep periodontal pockets and areas beneath the gums that require x-rays or surgical treatment can only be addressed by a veterinarian under anesthesia. Not all dogs require a deep cleaning, only those with periodontal disease or those with severe bleeding, inflammation and/or swollen gums.
Will my dog be stressed or scared?
We always work at your dogs pace and use calming techniques to help them feel secure. Since we do the cleaning in your home, your dog is already in a familiar and low-stress environment, which makes a big difference.
What if my dog wont sit still?
We are experienced in working with all kinds of temperaments-as long as they do not bite. We take our time, allow breaks, and adjust to your dog's needs. However, if your dog bites, or is aggressive, we may recommend alternative options.
What happens if my dog can't complete the dental cleaning?
Your pet’s comfort and safety are our top priorities. In the rare event that a dog is unable to complete the cleaning—typically due to unexpected aggression or biting behavior—you will not be charged for the full service. Instead, a small fee will be applied to cover our time and travel. Fortunately, these situations are very uncommon. We are experienced in working with dogs of all temperaments and are able to calm even the most anxious pups. As long as your dog has no history of aggression, we will be able to complete the cleaning successfully using our gentle, sedation-free approach.
Can I stay with my dog during the cleaning?
While we totally understand wanting to be by your dog's side, we've found that dogs tend to relax more and do better without their pet parent in the room. There are those rare instances where the opposite is true, and in those cases, we would encourage you to be in the room with us. Don't worry - we'll treat your pup like one of our own either way and keep you updated every step of the way!
What CAN'T this cleaning fix?
Sedation-free dental cleanings are designed for maintenance and prevention. They cannot treat: tooth extractions, advanced periodontal diease, oral infections or abcesses, fractured or loose teeth requiring treatment, and/or problems below the gum line that require x-rays. If these issues are suspected, we will refer you to your licensed veterinarian.
What makes Happy Tails unique?
What sets us apart from others is our unique approach to care. A truly gentle and thorough dental cleaning cannot be rushed or completed in 10-15 minutes without compromising your pet's comfort. We never force, restrain, or hold your dog down; we take our time to work at your dog's pace, ensuring they feel safe and respected throughout the entire visit.
We focus entirely on your dog's comfort (safety and comfort are always our first priority), using ultrasonic technology, calming techniques, and a one-on-one approach that most traditional vets can't offer. We're not a vets office - we're a caring, compassionate, holistic service designed just for small dogs. As pet parents ourselves, we treat every dog as if they were our own - with patience, compassion, and the highest standard of care. Plus, we bribe them with treats.
How often should my dog get their teeth cleaned?
Most dogs benefit from a professional cleaning every 6 months, depending on their breed, diet and oral hygiene routine. Some benefit from more often cleanings. The time period between cleanings will be assessed at your first visit. If your dog is showing signs of periodontal disease, we may refer you back to your licensed veterinarian for your dogs next cleaning so they can perform a deep cleaning. After that visit, we can resume regular interval maintenance cleanings.
What locations due you service?
Happy Tails is based in Northern New Jersey and serves the surrounding areas. Please send us a message and we'd be happy to let you know if we are able to come to you.
My dog is under 5lbs - can you still do the cleaning?
Yes! We work with many tiny pups and take extra care with small breeds under 5 pounds. Every cleaning is gentle, slow-paced, and tailored to your dog's size and comfort level.
Do you provide services for large dogs too?
Our specialty is small breeds, as they are more prone to dental issues and typically respond best to this kind of hands-on care. We do provide cleanings for larger dogs in many cases, dependent upon breed and temperment. If you have a larger dog, feel free to reach out - we can discuss if it's a good fit.
Do you clean and sterilize your instruments between dogs?
Yes, absolutely! All of our instruments are thoroughly cleaned and sterilized between each dog using the same high standards you'd find in a human dental office. Your dogs health and safety are our top priorities, and we follow strict protocols to ensure everything is spot-less and germ-free every time.
Is there a risk of my dog aspirating water or tartar during the ultrasonic cleaning?
Your dog's safety is our absolute top priority. We use minimal water with our ultrasonic scaler and carefully position your dog so all water and any loosened tartar drain safely out of the side of the mouth-away from the airway. Our technique is specifically designed to minimize risk while providing a gentle and effective cleaning.
Do veterinarians recommend anesthesia-free dental cleanings?
Veterinary dental care under anesthesia is the gold standard for diagnosing and treating advanced disease. An anesthesia-free cleaning is a preventative and maintenance option for appropriate dogs and does not replace veterinary treatment.
Do you offer any natural or holistic products?
Yes! We use dog-safe, vet-approved products and can recommend natural options for daily at-home care to help maintain your pup's clean smile between visits.
Will my dog hate me or you after this?
Only for about 30 seconds - and then we win them back with belly rubs and baby talk. We usually part as best friends.
Will my dog's breath smell like roses after this?
Lets be honest - maybe not roses, but definitely way better than before the visit.
Are you registered and insured?
Yes, we are fully registered and insured. Your dog's safety - and your peace of mind - are extremely important to us.
Do you offer a discount for more than one dog?
Yes, we do! Got a whole pack of pups? We offer a multi-dog discount to keep all those tails wagging - and those teeth sparkling!
What is the cost of the no anesthesia dental cleaning?
The cost can be significantly less than the cost of a veterinary cleaning, but just as safe & as effective. Regular non-sedation dental cleaning for dogs can reduce the need for expensive vet procedures in the future. Please contact us for the cost of your sedation-free dental for dogs.
What is your cancellation policy for appointments?
Because appointments are reserved exclusively for your dog and require travel to your home, we kindly ask for at least 48 hours' notice from the time of your scheduled appointment for any cancellations or rescheduling.
Late cancellations with less than 48 hours' notice may result in forfeiture of the appointment, and Happy Tails Dental reserves the right to decline future scheduling. We appreciate your understanding and respect for our time, as this allows us to accommodate other pets in need of care.
Do you travel outside your primary service area?
Yes! While Happy Tails Dental primarily serves our local area, we do travel to surrounding locations. A travel fee may apply depending on distance. If you have a friend or family member whose home is avilable for the dental cleaning, we are happy to perform the appointment there as well. The visit takes about an hour, depending on each dog's individual need. Some pet parents choose to rent a hotel room for the day where we can comfortably complete the dental cleaning - this is absolutely an option too.
Can you provide an invoice to submit to my pet insurance for reimbursement?
Absolutely! We’re happy to provide you with a detailed invoice after your dog’s cleaning that includes all the information your pet insurance company may require.
However, whether or not you’re reimbursed depends entirely on your individual insurance policy and coverage. Since every plan is different, we recommend checking with your provider ahead of time to see if anesthesia-free dental cleanings are covered.
We’ll make sure your invoice is complete and easy to submit — you just handle the claim process with your insurance company.