Nails: the long & short of it

Did you know that your dog's nails have a direct impact on their comfort & well being? Overgrown nails actually change how your dog walks & stands. The foot structure of dogs is such that if the nails are overgrown the dog can end up bearing weight on the nail rather than on the pads as intended or they stand incorrectly to avoid standing directly on their nails. Over time, chronic compensation for overgrown nails causes physical changes to the foot structure which affects the entire body. Overgrown nails also mean a dog is more likely to slip on slick surfaces as the pad doesn't make correct contact for traction & even weight distribution. Further, some nails may hook & actually grow back into the paw pad. Think ingrown toenail from HELL! Keeping nails at an appropriate length reduces the risk of injury because your dog's body can function as intended, reduces risk of injury due to incorrect traction or compensation, reduces the risk of some arthritic conditions, saves your furniture & saves your floors.  

Nail trimming isn't all that difficult but it can be intimidating. If you're not comfortable trimming your dog's nails yourself please seek help from a professional. Most groomers are happy to provide this as a stand alone service & it is included as a standard part of a full groom. Depending on your dog, nails may need to be trimmed as often as weekly but no less than once a month.  

Dogs Naturally magazine published an article on nail health that you can find here http://www.dogsnaturallymagazine.com/trimming-your-dogs-toenails/

In conjunction with Dr. Natasha The Animal Chiro, nail trimming services are offered at Speedy Paws/Soggy Paws most Wednesdays from 11-1 PM for $10. I will either grind or clip your dog's nails for you depending on which they tolerate. I'm happy to schedule trims around other appointments as well so if you just need nails done give me a call at 864-351-8701 & I will work something out with you. 

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