How Do I Sedate My Dog To Cut His Nails
How do i sedate my dog to cut his nails?
What can i give my dog to calm him down to cut his nails?
If your dog does not let you cut his nails because he is afraid, the first thing you have to know is that it is a very normal reaction. Many dogs have real panic just from seeing scissors or nail clippers, and what is said to like, no dog loves it.
To avoid this, what is done is to administer a sedative. But is it a good idea to sedate a dog to cut his nail?
The use of medications without veterinary supervision, and more so in the case of tranquilizers, is hazardous, and therefore we cannot recommend it in any case.
When should it be sedated?
The truth is that it depends a lot on the character of the dog itself. Some are very friendly and calm, and it is not necessary to sedate them. Still, there are others who on the contrary have a terrible time in places such as a dog grooming or a veterinary clinic and that therefore it is advisable to give them a sedative.
It is also a very valid option if the dog, for whatever reason (bad or lack of socialization, has been mistreated, etc.), has or may have aggressive behavior.
How to sedate a dog?
To sedate a dog, the first thing to do is take it for a long walk, to exercise. It is essential that you get as tired as possible so that you are calmer in this way. Therefore, it is advisable to run with him or take him with the bicycle – as long as he is used to it.
Once at home, we will give you the sedative mixed with your favorite food and make sure you eat it all. In case you have left the pill, we will have to take it and force it to eat it by introducing it in the mouth and then keeping it closed until it is swallowed. It is important not to exert a lot of pressure: you don’t have to hurt him.
Why is it essential to cut your nails?
Some people, when they see their dog having such a wrong time, are delaying the time to cut them until without realizing the nails, they become a problem for their health. Excessively long nails can cause postural issues or even arthritis. Also, they are more likely to break and cause injuries and infections.
Do I cut them at home or in a specialized center?
The nail trimming is an operation that can be performed at home, provided that the veterinarian has previously taught you how to do it and count on the necessary instruments (generally, a nail clipper adapted to the size of the animal). For this, it is advisable to start a few days before with some sessions of «massage» on the legs and nails, so that you see this manipulation as something every day, and if necessary, accompanied by prizes and perks when you participate and let yourself be manipulated.
If you are not sure how to do it, or your dog becomes very nervous, it is recommended that you take it to the vet or an experienced dog groomer. There they do it faster because they are used to it.
You also have to keep in mind that white nails are more natural to cut than black nails.
When can you not delay further cutting nails?
We already talked about how often a dog has its grooming routines. But to know if your dog already needs a nail cut, stand up and see if his nails brush the ground. They should be flush or slightly above. If they protrude and are scratching the floor, it is time to cut their nails.
TIP: If you want to extend the period between cuts, you can take him for a walk through places with rough surfaces that help him wear his nails naturally.
Can the dog be sedated so that he does not suffer when cutting his nails?
We know some cases in which the veterinarian sedates the dog so that the nails can be cut. These are dogs that have probably suffered hemorrhages and painful cuts before or some other type of traumatic experience, and that does not have any health problem that discourages their sedation in extreme cases.
In any case, this measure is discouraged in the vast majority of dogs as unnecessary
How to cut a dog’s nails at home
Start by choosing a good time, and think it is essential that your dog is calm. Once you see that your dog is calm and you have your localized nail clipper guide you through these steps:
- Start cutting the nails on the front legs, then continue on the hind legs, putting your dog on its side or gently pawing it back when standing.
- Hold the leg firmly and cut each nail without reaching the pink area, since that is where the blood vessels are. If, when you cut your nails, you bleed by accident, there are products on the market to stop these small hemorrhages. If your dog has black fingernails and you can’t see the area of blood vessels, don’t worry: cut from underneath little by little until you see a gray oval. When in doubt, always go to your veterinarian.
- Once you cut all the nails, file them to smooth the cuts.
- When you’re done, congratulate your dog. You can give him a prize, and he will remember the activity as something positive, and it will be easier for you next time.
You must know what tools to use to cut your dog’s nails. With which it will be straightforward to perform this activity.
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This article is purely informative; at redargentina.com, we have no power to prescribe veterinary treatments or make any diagnosis. We invite you to take your pet to the veterinarian in case he presents any condition or discomfort.
