Broken Nail in Dogs: What to Do?
Broken nails in dogs are relatively common injuries, but they can cause significant pain and affect your pet’s mobility. If your dog is limping, bleeding, or constantly licking one of its paws, it may be a sign of a broken nail. In such cases, it’s crucial to act quickly to prevent the situation from worsening.
How to Check if the Nail is Broken?
First, if your dog allows it, carefully inspect its paw to check if the nail is indeed broken. However, be extremely cautious, as a broken nail can be very painful. Your dog may react with aggression or nervous behavior. If this happens, it’s better not to insist and to take your dog to the veterinarian immediately. The pain might cause your dog to bite or run away.
What to Do to Stop the Bleeding?
If the nail is bleeding and your dog allows handling, you can try to stop the bleeding by applying cornstarch to the affected area. This simple method helps coagulate the blood and stop the hemorrhage. Gently apply the cornstarch to the wound and maintain light pressure for a few minutes. If your dog doesn’t allow you to do this, wrap its paw in a clean towel to limit blood splatter while waiting to see the veterinarian.
When to See a Veterinarian?
If your dog shows signs of intense pain or if the nail appears severely damaged, it’s essential to see a veterinarian as soon as possible. At the clinic, the veterinarian will perform a thorough examination and may use appropriate techniques to treat the broken nail. This may include pain management, wound cleaning, and, if necessary, removal of the broken part of the nail. Medications, as well as an Elizabethan or inflatable collar, may be prescribed to prevent your dog from licking the wound and worsening the situation.
How to Prevent Broken Nails?
The best prevention against broken nails is to regularly trim your dog’s nails. Cut them approximately every four to six weeks to prevent them from becoming too long and fragile. This will also reduce the risk of injuries during walks or playtime. If you have a puppy, it’s recommended to start this routine early to make nail trimming easier in the future. If in doubt, don’t hesitate to ask your veterinarian to show you how to proceed.
Conclusion
A broken nail in dogs can be very painful, but with prompt management, you can minimize pain and prevent the situation from worsening. First, check the injury, try to stop the bleeding if possible, and consult a veterinarian quickly for appropriate treatment. Lastly, ensure your dog’s nails are well-maintained by trimming them regularly to prevent future injuries.
