Clipping Fido’s Nails

Does your canine buddy make a clicking sound when he runs across the kitchen floor? If so, your pet may be in need of a pawdicure. In this article from Arapahoe Animal Hospital, your Boulder, CO vet, serving Louisville and surrounding areas, a local vet discusses clipping Fido’s claws.

Overgrown claws aren’t just unsightly: they can actually be very uncomfortable for your dog. Your pooch may change his gait as a result. This can put additional stress on his bones and joints, which, over time, can contribute to bone/joint issues, such as arthritis. Long nails also make it harder for your furry friend to get traction on slippery surfaces. Last but not least, if Fido’s nails are overgrown, he is more likely to snag them on things, which can cause painful injuries and even infections.

Many people are very nervous about clipping their pets’ nails. There is a good reason for this: if you cut too close, you could cut the quick, which is where your pup’s nerves and blood vessels end. This can be painful for Fido, and can also cause bleeding. One solution is to get clippers equipped with sensors. These indicate exactly where to cut, so you don’t have to guess. You also don’t have to do all four paws at once. Just do one at a time, and keep rotating. We recommend keeping styptic powder or pens on hand, just in case. If you do slip up, these products should stop the bleeding. Contact your vet if bleeding persists.

There are a few things you can do to make clipping your pup’s claws a little easier. First, get Fido used to having his toes handled. Start by teaching your pet to Gimme Paw . When your furry pal offers his foot, play with his toes for a minute, then give him a treat and let go. Next, try running your clippers over his claw, but don’t cut yet. You just want to get your pup used to having his toes handled.

If you don’t feel comfortable offering your pooch a pawdicure, just call us to schedule a quick nail trim. These can also be scheduled into Fido’s regular veterinary appointments.

Does your dog need a peticure? Contact Arapahoe Animal Hospital, your Boulder, CO vet, serving Louisville and surrounding areas, today!