Step 3: The Actual Procedure
- Get prepared
Assemble all the tools required. These include nail cutters, plucker, clippers or scissors, cotton, some baby lotion. Make sure all the pieces of equipment are clean and sterilized. Once you’re ready, grab your dog, give him/her some cuddles, and treats such as a bone or biscuits.
- Decide the length
While your dog is busy chewing the given treat, gently look for the length of its nail. Check for the quick. Use the flashlight tip and get ready for the process.
- Trim it right
The correct method is to trim parallel to the quick present above. If the floor beneath is laid horizontally, you need to cut it diagonally, making an angle of around 120 degrees. So, it will be in the direction of the upper left to lower right.
- Apply some lotion
Once you finish the trim, apply some lotion and give a gentle rub to the foot.
Step 4: Troubleshooting
While completing this process, there are chances for things to go wrong. There can be bleeding after the trimming. Be calm and clean the area with lots of clean water. Make sure there is less contact with the surface to prevent any infection. Look for some dog antiseptic cream or styptic powder and gently apply it over the affected area. If the bleeding doesn’t stop for over 30 mins, then give a ring to the vet or try contacting the pharmacy if an emergency.
Teach your dog to lay down in a relaxed position during the entire process. If the dog is hyperactive for some reason, it is advised to use clippers made particularly for dogs. Filing the nailing is also advisable because the trim has left pointy tips that can be dangerous to your pet. They will round on their own, but for safety reasons, you can do that instantly.
Step 5: Finish It With A Reward
Dog sticks, bones, biscuits are some treats your dog loves to relish. Rewarding is an excellent technique for encouraging good behaviors in your doggies. Every time they are disciplined and do something good, you can gift them these snacks. Dogs tend to remember every action they’ve been praised for or yelled at. And hence, they are smart enough to decide if they should repeat the same act or not. So, treating them for being good can motivate them to maintain the same discipline and order during their next grooming session.
Failure to trim regularly
– Longer nails can get tough and cause a lot of pain
– It also gets difficult to cut long hard nails
– Dust and dirt can quickly accumulate beneath or within the spaces
– Chances of infection and contamination when in contact with soil or mud
– They can crack and reduce traction to the surface
– Chances of scratches, if kids are playing with the pet
– Possibilities of them scratching their ears or nose
Positives of trimming regularly
– Reduces pain of longer cuts
– Less pressure over toe joints
– Good grip- comfortable to walk and move around
– Reduces damage to furniture
– Keep away potential injuries
– Keeps out all the unnecessary scratches while playing
– It is also believed that the right nail length helps dogs maintain their posture well
Take home message
These easy tips and tricks will guide you through a smooth grooming routine. So, the next time you plan on one, make sure to be well versed with all these points in mind.
