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Q: Should I clip my dog’s nails before letting him run outside?

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Clipping a dog’s nails is very important. Even more so, if your dog is going to be active and run around.  Many dogs can break a nail easily if it is too long.  The nail can often break down to the nail bed leading to limping and a lot of pain.  In some situations, the nail will need to be removed while your pet is sedated.  Clipping the nails regularly will not completely prevent this from happening.  But, a shorter nail, is less likely to get caught on something or break than when they are left long. 

Some dogs will automatically have shorter nails dependant on their activity level and where they play.  Some dogs if they play on concrete will already have their nails filed down and may not require any clipping.

If you choose to clip your own dog’s nails be certain that you know what to do.  You can’t clip the nail too short because it will be very painful and will start to bleed.  If you are clipping your dog’s nails you should always remember to have Qwik stop available.  Qwik stop will help control bleeding if you clip the nail too short.  Many times clipping a dog’s nails is a two person job.  Many dogs do not like their feet touched or handled.  If you are uncomfortable clipping your dogs nails feel free to schedule an appointment at one of Central Veterinary Associates locations as we are here to help.  If your dog injures their nail we are open 24/7/365 at our Valley Stream location for emergencies.

 

Central Veterinary Associates Valley Stream location is open 24/7/365 including on Superbowl Sunday. If your pet is sick, please give us a call at

1-888-4CVAPETS,  http://www.centralvets.com.