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Dog toenail?
I am looking after my neighbors dog. It is a 15 year old shih tzu. He has one bad toenail, on the back foot. It is over an inch long and curves around almost to the pad. But does not touch the pad as far as I can tell. And it is quite thick almost like a double nail. All the other nails are normal. I have a dog nail clippers that I use on my dog, and I can see the quick on my dogs nails. Should I cut this dogs long nail or am I going to hurt him?
5 Answers
- 1 decade agoFavorite Answer
When looking at the nail.... look for the dull area on the nail... the shiny part of the nail is the "Live" part of the nail and you just have to be able to discern the two areas. When you can tell where the shiny part ends and the dull part begins....you can cut just below the shiny part. You should not cut into the quick. Just in case you do... have styptic powder on hand to dab on to the nail if it starts to bleed slightly. Remember... you are only to try to cut off the "dull" area of the nail. Be careful if you do this your self, but it may behoove you to take the animal either to the groomer for this or the vet.
Source(s): I am a groomer. - 1 decade ago
The most important thing to do is make sure the dog feels no discomfort. Having a nail so long could be dangerous to the dogs health and comfort. I agree with the person who said to call the owner and let them know what is going on. But the only difference that I suggest is if the dog shows that it is in pain or in discomfort is to tell them that you are going to take the dog to the groomers to have the nail trimmed because at this moment you are the one responsible for the dogs health.
Good luck. :)
- 1 decade ago
Having that long of a nail could be dangerous to him. I recommend to contact the owners first to let them know and either trim the nail yourself (if you feel comfortable) or take him to a groomer to do it for you.
- 8020ruleLv 51 decade ago
You have covered all the details in your asking of the question. If you can see the quick, you will be fine in cutting it. As you probably know the quick will retreat after time, but you need to start somewhere.
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- nataliexoxoLv 71 decade ago
you can try. it might hurt but he might be much more comfy if you cut it. it's probly like walking with a rock in your shoe- always digging in to the pad when he walks.
have you asked the owners if it's okay first?