Original Article: https://blog.theanimalrescuesite.greatergood.com/dog-comforts-dental-patients/

There is only one thing worse than going to see the doctor, and that is going to see the dentist. Everyone hates the dentist. No matter how great your dental hygiene routine is, or how nice your dentist is, no one likes going to see the dentist. But some patients in California are getting the ultimate incentive to go for their six-month check-up.

13-year-old Kismet, a toothless little Chihuahua, has been brightening the lives of the patients who visit the Corte Madera Family Dentistry. According to CNN, the little senior pup brings plenty of smiles to those patients who may be feeling a little stressed being in the dental seat.

As a result, she’s now a full-time employee helping to look after those nervous patients who come in to get their teeth done.

Dr. Cameron Garrett, the resident dentist, shared with CNN that everyone experiences some anxiety when coming into the office. He further added that there is science to show interacting with animals can help to fix the anxiety that can be felt when going into the dentist.

As he said, “having physical contact with a pet really lowers the blood pressure and heart rate and makes it a much calmer moment.”

Dr. Garrett runs the dental office alongside his wife, Debra Garrett, who is a dental hygienist. The couple adopted Kismet back in July following the death of their other dog, Karma.

Before the Garretts adopted Kismet, she had been a stray under the care of the Muttville Senior Dog Rescue. While in their care, little Kismet was diagnosed with heart disease. She also had to have a cancerous tumor removed, as well as received treatment for a hernia. If that all wasn’t enough, the poor dog also lost all her teeth after they were removed because of periodontal disease.

Even though Kismet had been through the wringer, she still remained a friendly and upbeat dog. She loves to great all her patients – especially kids.

Dr. Garrett said, according to PEOPLE, “When dog lovers see Kismet they immediately light up and it takes them away from the stresses of the moment.”

Patients aren’t the only ones benefiting from having Kismet around the office. Her owners are also deriving plenty of pleasure having their little furry buddy hanging about – especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. As Debra confessed to PEOPLE, having Kismet around the office with him has been such a nice boost for going to work. As she stated, “Kismet is such a delight. She is the sweetest little thing.”

Sign me up for that dentist’s office! Who else wishes their dentist had a resident dog? Let us know!

Source: The Animal Rescue Site Blog