The two issues we’ll be talking about here are the most commonly encountered during dog nail trimming sessions, along with some tips in what to do when they happen to you and your dog.
The “Holding Still” Issue
Not all dogs are comfortable with the idea of having their nails trimmed, and many have resorted to different solutions to dogs with this tenacious attitude against grooming.
Some have called for two or more people holding a dog down while trimming doggy nails, as other have tried measures such as sedating dogs and trimming doggy nails while he/she is out cold.
These solutions prove to have some hassles (and some risks, especially when sedating dogs are involved), and as such, desensitizing them to getting used to the idea of having their nails trimmed proves to be the best solution.
Just like with teaching your dog new tricks, consider rewarding your pooch if he/she has been cooperative with nail trimming sessions. Do gradual frequency installments with nail trimming sessions, in instilling the idea to your dogs.
At times, calling for the services of the pros helps, but these services will cost money, and will also cost you the opportunity to bond with your dogs.
Bottom line, don’t expect your dog to get used to the idea of nail trimming on the spot. If a dog is uncooperative, give him/her the chance to get used to the new idea of nail trimming.
The Cut Into the Quick Issue
When a dog’s nails bleed during a nail trimming session, this could probably mean you’ve cut into the nail quick of your dog. This happens when dog nail trimmers cut too deep, hitting the nerve and blood vessel within the dog’s nail.
When such a situation happens, some flour or corn starch can be used as a styptic powder substitute, though the home-items aren’t as effective as styptic powder. Use tissue balls or cotton balls in wiping away blood.
Cuts like these cause pain, but they’re not lasting nor are they exactly debilitating for dogs. Just remember that the idea is to trim your dog’s nails and NOT to cut them all off!
Not your dog’s reactions whenever you trim a nail. If your dog yelps indicating pain but no blood comes out, this marks that you’ve cut close to the nail quick and cutting/trimming any further wont’ be a good idea.
Do well in ensuring that your dog’s nails aren’t cut too short. This could traumatize your dog, making nail trimming sessions more difficult to manage.
So there you have it! The basics of dog nail trimming sessions, covering the right equipment to have, the ideal frequencies between dog nail trimming sessions and what to do when blood and pain happens during dog nail trimming sessions.
Do well in remembering the points raised in this topic-series.
Dog nail trimming sessions will be significantly easier, and your dog will greatly appreciate your efforts.
