Pet Expert Teaches Stratedgies To Properly Trim Your Dog's Nails

Online, April 5, 2011 (Newswire.com) - Many animals are sensitive to having their paws even touched, let alone having someone come at them with a strange metal tool and grabbing their foot. In the wild, animals' feet are very important and must be protected: they carry them to food and help them escape predators. Domestic animals still have these instincts.

For "newbie" pet owners, start the desensitization process by getting your animal accustomed to having their paws touched. If possible, start early with young animals; if you have an adult pet you can also begin the process. Give an excess of treats and praise when you pick up a paw. Once you're ready for the actual pedicure, start with the proper tools: a clipper intended for pets, styptic powder (or flour) which will immediately stop any bleeding that may occur, and, of course, plenty of your pet's favorite treats.

Make sure the clipper's blades are sharp. The sharper the blade, the quicker you can cut the nail with less pinch. Unlike human nails, animals have a nerve and blood vessel inside their nails, usually referred to as the "quick." If the nails are light colored, you can easily see where the quick begins. However, if the nails are dark, clip only little bits off at a time, or you may cut into the quick, making them bleed and causing a bit of pain. If this happens, apply the styptic powder at the end of the nail and offer many treats.

If the animal is uneasy about the procedure, take the time to introduce each step gradually with treats and praise. You may also find having another person distract the pet with treats is helpful. If you are just not comfortable or if your companion animal tries to bite or thrashes too much, consider visiting a professional groomer. Exotic pets need to have their nails trimmed too. Follow the same steps above and ask your exotic animal veterinarian for more tips.

Source: http://www.mercurynews.com/peninsula-columnists/ci_17756710?nclick_check=1

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