I have a small breed dog, and his nails grow so fast. So many people tell me that I should start cutting them myself and how easy it is and that it will safe me money. But I just don't want to risk messing up and hurting him? It doesn't seem right for someone that is untrained to do it? Does anyone else do their own dog's nails? I've heard a few horror stories

 

Wadebeyond,

I always suggest that you have your vet teach you how to do it. It really is NOT difficult and I do all my own, so I know. IF your vet won't show you, ask a groomer or someone who does their own dogs, preferably similar to your dog.

The main thing to remember is to look for the Quick of the nail, it will usually be fairly visible, except in dark nails, then even with good light sometimes it isn't easy to see. Be sure you have some Styptic Powder handy or cornstarch in case of an emergency.

The only thing that may happen if you happen to cut a bit too deep is the nail will bleed. Put the styptic on it and apply pressure and it will generally stop within a few minutes.

You might try looking on YouTube and watch a few of the videos they have of how to do the clipping.

Hope this helps and do keep us posted!

 

I think the secret to this is to do it often - problems seem to occur a lot more often when the nails are allowed to get way too long.

 

i just cut my cat's nail, well, when he was a child. Since age 4 or 5 he refused. dogs the same? or just my spoiled kitty...

 

Alexllever,

If you start when the animal is young and do it with positive reinforcement, most dogs and cats will be fine with it. But if you don't do it often, and keep up the positive reinforcement, they will not like having it done.

 

I have to go to the vet tomorrow anyways. I will ask them to show me. Hopefully I will get the courage to do it on my own. What about those pet clippers that are seen on infomercials? It's like a spinning mechanical thing? Those look pretty scary.

 

Don't waste your time with the infomercial machine. Look at the reviews on Amazon or similar.

Get a good pair of trimmers...do it often, love that critter afterwards, give them a treat..they'll start to get the idea. I've also seen that you should do it when they are relaxed. After a bit of play, or after they finish eating...something like that.

Main thing is don't trim too short. If you cut too short and get into the quick..thats bad.

We use regular nail clippers on our cat..but its easier since her nails are translucent. You can see the root.

 

thx RhainyC. i just dont understand why my kitty is so bad-tempered. it seems like that he doesnt like my touch. sometimes i play with him, he easily attackes me.....

 

Alexllever,

I would have to know much more to know what might be his problem. Some cats simply do not like being handled.

If you want to post questions about your kitty, that I and others may be able to help you with you cat, please feel free to post questions to a new thread and we will be glad to try and help.

 

Yeah I haven't heard too many good reviews about the spinning machine either. Thanks...