Canine Nail Care

It’s surprising how many dogs we get in here with overgrown nails.   It must cause a great deal of discomfort for the dog, if not actual pain.   The first thing it tells us is the dog hasn’t been having enough exercise.   Walking, especially on a hard surface, will naturally keep the nails short.  It might be because the dog is arthiritic or unwell and can’t get out so much though.   This is something to watch out for if you have an older dog, long nails make all the problems worse.

A regular weekly check on nails is advisable, don’t forget the back feet too.   It’s easy enough to clip the nails yourself, choose a clipper with a guard so you don’t take too much off at once.   The nail has a ‘live’ quick in the middle and if you cut into this it will bleed and you will hurt your pet.   If you do accidentally cut it a liberal sprinkle of wound powder and a bandage will help stop the bleeding.   It does often look very alarming although it usually stops within a short while.   If this happens remember that there is an open would there and keep  the foot clean and dry until it heals.   Have it checked out with the vet if there is pain or swelling or if you are worried.

Taking a little bit of the end of the nail off at a time is all it needs.   You can rasp the end of the nail down afterwards with a nail file.    If you are uneasy about cutting nails you can ask your vet to do it or your grooming salon.   It only takes a few minutes and makes all the difference to your dog’s comfort and wellbeing.