Keep your pet’s nails neat and trimmed

You notice that your dog’s nails are way too long and they annoyingly click on the flooring whenever he walks passed you. So, time to get ready to trim your dog’s nails. You sit down with your pooch, pull out his paw, with clipper in hand, and he wants no part of it. He pulls his paw away, you grab it back, and now he makes the mad dash — trying to get away from you at all costs. If you are lucky and you manage to get in a cut — it might be too far along the nail shaft and you cut the quick and now your poor dog is bleeding.

Many dogs do not like having their paws touched and they are particularly sensitive about nail trimmings. However, nail trimming is important to your dog’s health. Long nails can be painful and can curl under and grow into the paw — affecting the way your dog walks and ultimately causing bone, joint, hip, and back problems. In addition, long nails can get torn or splayed. Dogs need to have their nails trimmed every three to eight weeks. Dogs who walk on pavement frequently need less frequent trimmings.

The best plan of attack is to handle your dog’s feet often, particularly if you have a puppy. Make sure your pup has his nails clipped on a regular basis and in this way, he won’t give you such a struggle when he gets older. When clipping your dog’s nails, choose a cutting tool that both you and your dog feel comfortable with. Remember to replace the blade frequently.

Hold on to your dog’s paw and clip on the cutting line, avoiding the quick. If you do cut into the quick, be sure to have a styptic pencil or powder handy to dip the injured nail into. Having a helper to distract your dog while this is happening can be very beneficial.

Another tool that has proven to be useful is a nail grinder. It is easy and safe to use and works quickly. It does not cut the nail, but instead files the nail away, a little bit at a time. It does make a grinding sound when used, but it is not too loud.

If you have tried your best and are still unsuccessful, take your dog to a veterinarian or a groomer. He is worth it!

Angie Lewis is Vice President of the Alaska Dog and Puppy Rescue.