Many pet rescue organizations, adoption centers, and other nonprofits use veterinary dental care to improve the health of pets being adopted or to provide a service to the local pet-owning community.

Here are some reasons to consider looking into veterinary dental equipment and offering dental services to dogs, cats, or other pets at a nonprofit center—as well as ideas for making it happen.

Reasons to Invest in Veterinary Dental Care

Along with obesity, dental disease is one of the most common preventable medical ailments in pets in the US. According to AAHA, most dogs and cats over the age of three have some degree of dental disease.

Dental disease can lead to periodontal disease, in which the structures that hold teeth in place are compromised. This can cause pain, infections, and tooth loss. Additionally, many pets suffer from common dental conditions like broken teeth, resorptive lesions (mainly in cats), and more.

Many of these conditions can be treated right there in the nonprofit or rescue organization. This could potentially offer benefits such as allowing pets to be more comfortable until they’re adopted or improving the mood and sociability of these pets by alleviating any dental pain they might be experiencing. 

Additionally, many experienced or knowledgeable pet owners know that they would need to pay for dental treatment (along with associated anesthesia costs) for a pet that has dental or periodontal disease. So, in theory, a “clean dental slate” could possibly improve the adaptability of some pets. The pet’s better-smelling breath might help in that regard, too.

Some nonprofit organizations also offer low-cost veterinary services to the community, either to all pet owners or to those who demonstrate proof of a low income. Dental care could be a great way to improve the overall well-being of those pets.

The Business Plan

While it would be wonderful to offer every possible healthcare service to pets in need, whether those waiting to be adopted or those who already have homes in the community, any organization must do their due diligence and ensure the new equipment/service offerings make sense to them.

Some private and government-owned nonprofits must provide a business plan or proposal to whomever they are held accountable, whether that means public/government regulations, board members, or other overseeing entities. Even if a formal report or proposal isn’t necessary, it still makes sense to create a plan to ensure the investment is financially feasible.

Here are a few factors to consider for a business and financial plan…

• How will the equipment be used? Is it only for pets waiting to be adopted? Or will the organization offer services to client-owned pets in the community?

• Which specific services will be offered? With dental care, this might include dental cleanings, dental radiographs, and treatment of specific conditions such as extractions of diseased or injured teeth.

• Who will perform the services? Veterinary dental cleanings, radiographs, and oral surgery require general anesthesia under the guidance of a licensed veterinarian. Radiographs and cleanings can generally be performed by trained vet techs, but under the direction and supervision of a veterinarian. Some nonprofits might already have staff who are qualified to perform these procedures. Others must consider hiring, either on a full-time or part-time basis, or working with qualified experts who are willing to volunteer their time.

• Do any other equipment or supplies need to be purchased? As mentioned, general anesthesia is required. This is no problem for many organizations that already have surgical capabilities. But it might represent an additional investment for centers that are new to offering such services.

• Will the nonprofit charge for veterinary dental services—and if so, how much? If performing dental services on adoptable pets, the cost should be factored into the operations costs of the facility. If offering to client-owned pets, consider how much local pet owners can pay and how much the organization needs to charge to maintain financial health.

• Is the purchase of new equipment financially feasible? For many organizations, donations, grants, or a funding drive can really help with this. Think about any money the new equipment will bring in, as well as any associated new costs, such as equipment maintenance, interest/financing charges, staff time, and associated supplies. 

• How to educate pet owners on the value being provided? This is especially important if offering services to client-owned pets.

• Are all local regulations and legal requirements for nonprofits in that state/jurisdiction being met?

Finding Veterinary Dental X-ray Machines and Equipment

A good strategy would be to invest in the best possible machine within the nonprofit’s budget. But where to look for one or find a good deal?

Used or refurbished dental X-ray systems or cleaning units may present an affordable option that is still in very good condition. Some will still have warranties and service plans in place, while others will not.

Some nonprofits benefit from donations of new or like-new veterinary equipment. This could come from other veterinarians in the area or even local human hospitals or dentists’ offices who are upgrading their equipment. 

Some vendors or other organizations might offer new equipment as part of their own grant program, nonprofit arm, or effort to save on taxes. Or they might be willing to part with their demo or loaner machines for a very reasonable price.

With some planning and due diligence, many nonprofit pet organizations can find ways to offer veterinary dental services—yet another way to continue improving the health and quality of life of the animals they serve.

Written by: Dr. Tammy Powell, DVM