When humans break a nail, it can be painful, but it’s usually not a big deal. However, when dogs break a nail, it is extremely painful and may cause excessive bleeding and even lead to infection. That’s because a dog’s nail protects a fleshy area underneath that’s very sensitive. It’s important to have your dog’s nails clipped regularly at the dog groomer in order to avoid snagging and painful breaks. At All Creatures Inn in Nicholasville, KY, the caring staff offers pet boarding and pet grooming services to ensure your pup is well groomed and taken care of whenever they stay.

3 Tips for Treating Your Dog’s Broken Nail

1. Remove a Hanging Nail

If part of the nail is hanging off, you’ll have to clip it off with nail clippers to avoid further tearing. This will be painful for your dog, but it will ensure proper healing and allow you to treat the affected area. In the future, make a regular appointment to have your dog’s nails clipped at the dog groomer.

2. Stop the Bleeding

There will probably be a lot of bleeding. If you don’t have a styptic pencil, which is an easy way to stop the bleeding, pack the area with corn starch and flour, then wrap it in a paper towel.

3. Disinfect the Area

You’ll want to avoid infection, which is more likely now that the flesh underneath the nail is exposed. Rinse the area with warm water, then apply an antibiotic ointment such as Neosporin and wrap it in a bandage.

A broken nail is no fun for a dog. That’s why you need to keep their nails trimmed at all times by regularly visiting a dog groomer. At All Creatures Inn, pet boarding and affordable pet grooming ensure that all pets are treated with care during their stay. Call today at (859) 233-9000 or visit their website for more information. You can also find them on Facebook.