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Advice for sick or wounded dogs, cats, birds, other pets.

Preventative Care for Pets:
Routine Nail Trimming

 

Routine nail trimming is not usually a favorite past time amongst our pets, but never the less a necessity for most.  Nails left uncut have a tendency to "curl" and this curling can occur back into the pads of the feet.  Besides the discomfort, this can lead to infection.

Cats who scratch where we don't want them to need their nails trimmed back usually every 6-8 weeks.  Dogs usually require the same frequency. 

Overgrown nails in the dog can break off at the base of the nail known as the "quick", and can bleed and cause pain upon pressure on that area.  A mixture of flour and water to a paste, applied to the bleeding nail can help to stop the bleed. A styptic pencil or powder, or the "gooey" part of a bar of soap applied directly to the end of the nail, can stop the nail from bleeding if broken, or cut too short.

Before venturing to cut your pet's nails, be sure to be shown where the quick is located, to avoid unnecessary bleeding and discomfort to your pet.