Nail Clipping

Tools Needed:

     Large and medium sized dog nail clippers.

     Cat nail clippers.

     Styptic powder

     Dremel 

     Replacement sandpaper wheels for Dremel

     Cotton balls

Course Discussion

     Anatomy of the nail

     What to do if you cut into the quick

     Making the descision of where and how to cut

     Odd nails and dew claws

     Filing

     How to hold the pet while trimming

     Calming techniques

 

 

1.      Nails

                                It is important that nails are cut at least once a month. Over grown nails are painful. Sometimes leading to broken toes. Dew claws are frequently missed by groomers. These nails can grow into the pad causing infection. Technically removing this is a surgical procedure. I do it anyway. The dog needs relief yesterday. I remove the imbedded nail and suggest vet attention. Always tell the client about every injury. Dogs that walk a lot will wear down their own nails. The quick will grow out with the nail on neglected nails. To shorten the nail over time, have the customer get the nails clipped every week until the quick is shorter. Going more than two weeks does nothing but prevent overgrowth. When you use the nail clippers it shocks the quick back. Using the Dremel does not do this. Always use both tools as the pet tolerates.  

                Have firm grasp on the paw. Be confident about where to cut, and cut. The dog will have to adjust its weight several times while clipping the first paw. Let them readjust and continue. If you are still having difficulty, try holding the dog in your arms. Obviously, this doesn’t work on large dogs. Below are some pics of holds for a large dog.

                Clear or white nails are easier to clip. You can see the quick clearly.                               

                Cut about half way between the pink and the tip if the nail. 

                For brown or black nails, cut half of the dull part. And go from there. The back of the nail is usually shiny looking. This is the new growth. The old growth, at the tip of the nail, will be dull.                                              

Cat nails are easy. Cut the hook off. Most cats have clear or white nails.

                                           Dew claws

                Dogs and cats may have multiple dew claws on all legs. They usually grow in a circle. Cut just under half of the nail. Even if this bleeds it is okay. These nails can cause a lot of damage. And the next groomer may not notice it.

 Dremel is a filing tool. Use only the battery operated Dremel’s. The corded ones are heavy and can cause damage to you or the animal. Grind the sharp edges off the nail holding each individual nail as you go. Holding each nail as you work will diffuse the vibration and “tickle” the dog feels. This will give you more control as well.

                Elderly people and people on blood thinners need this service. The client will bruise and cut easily. I do not charge extra for nail filing for this reason.

Nail file                 For pups that are afraid of the Dremel, use a foot file. You can find these in any beauty supply store.

          Safe Handeling

Feet and Legs

Start by observing how four legged animals use their limbs. Feet stay flat or bend under and back. When a dog is standing, be sure the limbs remain in line with the body. Front legs do not extend to the side very far. Imagine a dog sitting. The paws are at the 6 o’clock position. Don’t go much farther than 5 o’clock. The back legs can extend out slightly to the side. I have seen dogs go as far as 110-degree angle. That was voluntary. Grooming is stressful and dogs will tighten their muscles. Making it difficult to move outward, potentially causing injury. Back legs should not be extended farther than a 45-degree angle.

             Hugs

            As defined by the American Heritage Dictionary, Hugs are an affectionate clasp or embrace. Most people don’t know how to properly hug. I see hugs as more of an exchange of good energy. 

Whenever you have to carry a pet, make it a big hug. Be cautious. Protect your head.

·         Place one arm between the front legs wrapping your arm around the outside, placing your hand on the back of the dog’s neck.

·         Put the other arm under the belly. Wrap arm around dog’s waist.

·         Pull pet to your chest.

·         Lift. Keeping the pet’s chest higher than their rear.

 Give good hugs whenever possible. Your dog will appreciate it.