Tribe Verified· 14+ years experience in Mumbai

Health, Grooming & Everyday Care for Your Dog

byMitali SalviFacility in Powai, Mumbai; Home visits across Mumbai; Accepts dogs pan-IndiaStarts from₹4,000 per sessionView full gallery

Keeping your dog healthy is about more than just annual vet visits. It is about the daily habits—from dental hygiene to safe leash protocols—that make your life together easier.

I decided to get my 13-year-old dog Pantu's teeth professionally scaled and polished. Plaque buildup can lead to serious health issues, so maintaining dental hygiene is incredibly important, especially for senior dogs.

This is Pantu's dental care awareness portrait. Taking care of your dog's teeth is a vital part of their overall health.

Here I am brushing Pantu's teeth. Daily brushing is the most effective way to prevent plaque and tartar buildup.

After trying many different types, I found that a simple human baby toothbrush works best for Pantu's mouth.

I use a professional pet toothpaste with a chicken flavor that Pantu likes. Never use human toothpaste on your dogs.

In addition to brushing, I use a water additive like this 'Ta Ta Tartar' solution to help freshen her breath and maintain oral hygiene.

For days when I'm short on time, these dental wipes are a great way to do a quick clean. They're also a good alternative for dogs who hate the sensation of a brush.

I found a flea on Pantu, so it was time for her spot-on treatment. I'm demonstrating how to properly apply the liquid between her shoulder blades where she can't lick it.

Pantu needed daily eye drops, which she wasn't a fan of. I used her mealtime to desensitize her to the process, starting by just touching the bottle to her head and slowly working my way to her eye, rewarding her for being calm.

Hemp seed oil is a wonderful natural supplement for a dog's skin and coat. I add it to their food or use it for a nice 'chumpy' massage. It's great for rashes and keeping paw pads moisturized.

About Health, Grooming & Everyday Care

Maintaining dental hygiene is one of the most overlooked aspects of dog health, often ignored until it becomes a painful problem. I don't use fancy, expensive gadgets for Pantu; I have found that a simple human baby toothbrush and pet-safe chicken-flavored toothpaste work wonders. It is about building a routine that your dog actually tolerates, rather than creating a battle you both dread every night.

Health and care are the foundations of a happy dog, and they are inextricably linked to training. If your dog is in pain or anxious, it will reflect in their behavior. Here is how I approach the everyday care that keeps my pack going.

Dental Hygiene

Don't wait for your dog to need a professional scaling before you pay attention to their mouth. Bacteria from plaque can lead to serious systemic issues, including cardiac problems. Daily brushing is the gold standard. I use a soft human baby toothbrush because it fits comfortably in a dog's mouth. Pair that with a dog-specific enzymatic toothpaste, and you are good to go. If your dog is brush-averse, dental wipes are a great entry point to get them used to having their mouth handled.

Safe Nutrition & Supplements

I am frequently asked about diet. While many owners look for supplements, it starts with what you avoid. Never, under any circumstances, give your dog cooked bones. They splinter and can cause fatal internal injuries. Instead, opt for raw, large bones that are safe for gnawing. For skin and coat health, especially in the Mumbai heat, I swear by cold-pressed hemp seed oil. It is excellent for reducing inflammation and keeping paw pads moisturized. If you see signs of acid reflux in summer, a spoon of chia seeds in their meal can help, but as with any dietary change, always introduce it slowly.

Safety Equipment

Your gear is a health and safety tool. I exclusively use martingale collars for dogs in my facility. Unlike standard collars that can slip off if a dog gets spooked by traffic or loud noises, a martingale tightens slightly under pressure without choking, ensuring your dog stays secure. It is a small change in equipment that prevents life-threatening accidents in busy city environments.

Desensitization

Whether it is eye drops, grooming, or nail clipping, don't just 'do it' to your dog. Use mealtime to desensitize them. Touch the bottle to their head, reward them, and slowly work your way up to the actual procedure. It takes patience, but it turns a stressful interaction into a cooperative one.

14+ years experience in Mumbai — Approved by the tribe

Mitali Salvi

Facility in Powai, Mumbai; Home visits across Mumbai; Accepts dogs pan-IndiaStarts from ₹4,000 per session

I am Mitali. I started training when I was 19, and my journey with my own dog, Pantu, taught me that health and training are two sides of the same coin. Whether I am managing Pantu's dental care or helping a nervous dog find calm, my goal is always to empower you to handle your dog's daily needs with confidence.