How to Cut Your Pet's Nails

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• Use toenail clippers that are made specifically for toenail trimming. We like this Extra Heavy Duty Nail Clipper


• Cut nails perpendicularly to the long axis of the nail, and about one-quarter inch away from the quick, which is the part of the nail that contains nerves and blood vessels.


• If you cannot see the quick clearly, stop cutting just behind the point at which the nail begins to curve downward.


• If you cut into the quick and the nail bleeds, do not panic. Draw the nail across a bar of softened soap to control the bleeding.


• You can also use a styptic (clotting) powder or stick that will clot the blood quickly. (Kwik Stop is a brand commonly available at your local pet supply retailer.) Put some of the powder on a moist cotton swab and press it firmly against the nail for several seconds.


• Do not forget to trim the dewclaw, which is located on the inside of each front leg just above the paw. (Some dogs do not have dewclaws.)


• If the dew claw nail (on the inside of the leg above the foot) has become embedded in the flesh of the leg, cut the nail at the proper place and extract the embedded tip. Treat the small wound with an antibacterial dressing. (You can also have your veterinarian or groomer do this.)


• If a toenail is broken and hangs by a small piece of tissue, pull the broken piece off with a hard twisting motion. If it bleeds, use the Kwik Stop or soap method mentioned above. If it doesn't come off easily, have your veterinarian do this.