Tag Archives: clipping dog’s nails

Dog Care, General Care

Clipping Your Dog’s Claws

Do your dog’s paws make a clicking noise when he walks? If so, Fido may need a peticure. While, as we all know, cats rather enjoy taking care of their nails, dogs need some help in this area. (Actually, Fluffy may be a bit too enthusiastic about her manicures, but that’s another topic.) Here, a Floyds Knob, IN vet discusses clipping your dog’s claws.

Dangers of Overgrown Claws

Keeping your dog’s nails clipped is very important! If Fido’s nails get too long, they’ll become quite uncomfortable for him, just as overgrown toenails are for people. Your pet may change his stride to lessen the discomfort, which will put additional stress on his bones and joints. Overgrown claws also make it more difficult for your pup to get good traction, especially on slippery surfaces.

Pawdicure Procedure

As you may know, if you cut Fido’s nails too close, you could cut the quick, which is where your pup’s nerves and blood vessels end. This can cause some bleeding, and is a bit painful. That said, while you do need to proceed with caution, giving your pup a pawdicure may be easier than you think. One good option is to get some clippers with sensors. These will indicate exactly where to cut. Regular clippers also work. If you’re using these, start by making thin cuts and checking the clippings. When you see a pale oval appear, stop cutting.

Precautions

We always advise our clients to err on the side of caution when it comes to pet care. Keep a styptic pen or styptic powder on hand when cutting Fido’s claws. If you do cut too close, this will stop any bleeding. You can also just call us to set up a quick nail trim!

Tips

Does Fido run and hide when he realizes it’s time for a pawdicure? Work on desensitizing your canine buddy, and getting him used to having his paws handled. Teach Fido that when he offers you his paw, he gets a yummy treat. Once your pooch has this figured out, start holding his paw for a moment. Handle his toes, and run the clippers over them. Then, give him a treat and let go. Your pup may soon decide he likes getting his nails done!

Do you need to schedule a nail trim for your dog? Contact us, your Floyds Knob, IN pet clinic, today!

Dog Care, General Care

4 Ways to Keep Your Dog’s Paws Healthy

Have you looked at your dog’s paws recently? Fido’s furry feet are very important to his overall health. After all, those furry paws let your pooch run, jump, and play! Read on as a Floyds Knob, IN vet lists some easy ways to keep your canine buddy’s paws in good shape.

Nail Trims

Don’t let your furry buddy’s nails get too long. Overgrown nails are very uncomfortable for Fido! They can also change the way your dog walks, as your canine buddy may have to adjust his gait to avoid discomfort. Over time, this can be very detrimental to your dog’s health, as it can contribute to painful conditions like arthritis or hip dysplasia. If you’re uneasy about cutting your pup’s nails yourself, consider investing in clippers with sensors. Or, just call us to set up a quick nail-trim appointment.

Choose Soft Surfaces

When you walk your pooch, always be mindful of the surfaces you are walking on. In summer, Fido can burn his paws on hot tar, sand, or cement. In winter, salt, snow, sand, and chemical deicing agents can all wreak havoc on your pet’s paws. Use paw balm or wax to keep your canine pal’s paw pads moist. Many dogs will appreciate booties to wear in cold weather, although not all of our four-legged friends enjoy fancy footwear. Be sure to choose pet-friendly de-icing agents! We also recommend using a damp washcloth to wipe down your furry friend’s paws every day.

Toe Fur

Those little tufts of fur Fido has between his toes may be super cute, but it’s best to keep these trimmed. Otherwise, they can get matted or gunky, which is pretty uncomfortable for Man’s Best Friend. If they get tangled, they’ll also make it harder for your pet to gain traction on slippery surfaces.

Pawsitive Thoughts

Inspect Fido’s furry feet regularly. You’ll want to watch for any injuries, as well as any swelling or hot areas. Look between your dog’s toes, to make sure there is nothing lodged between them. If your canine buddy gets a pebble or another foreign object stuck between his toes, it can become quite painful for him, and could even cause an infection. Contact your vet for anything more than a minor cut.

Does your pet need veterinary care? We can help! Call us, your Floyds Knob, IN animal hospital, anytime!