Tips to Trim Pet's Nails at Home

Taking care of a dog or cat involves more than providing food, shelter, love and affection. Pets also have grooming needs that are paramount for helping them maintain both their looks and their health. One area that pet owners tend to overlook involves nail trimming. This is not something that requires a trip to the groomer. If you want to do it at home, rest assured, you can. If you want to make sure your pet's nails are trimmed as often as they should be, it does pay to learn to do it yourself.

Why Should You Trim Their Nails?

Many pet owners think a monthly trip to the groomer is enough to keep their pet's nails neatly trimmed. This is not the case and it can become a pricey monthly expense.

To do it yourself, remember that your dog or cat's nails should be trimmed weekly. If your pet's nails are not properly trimmed, a number of problems can arise. Some of the top reasons to learn the right techniques include:

• Comfort - When a dog or cat's claws are allowed to grow too long, they can get in the way of comfort. Particularly long claws can make it very difficult and even painful for your dog to walk.
• Health - Serious problems with walking can develop when a dog or cat is made to walk on claws that are too long for a lengthy period of time.
• Preventing Damage - When a dog or cat's nails are too long they sometimes have a propensity to leave claw marks behind while playing. This may also happen when your pet jumps on the furniture or paws at the doors. Keeping them neat and trim can help on this front.

Selecting the Right Tools of the Trade

When it is time to trim your pet's nails, it is important to have the right tools. This can help ensure a faster, cleaner job. There are two main options to consider:

• Regular clippers - Most pet stores and veterinarian offices sell special clippers for cutting claws quickly and evenly. These work well for dogs that are generally calm when their nails are being trimmed. When used correctly, they get the job done right and they are fast to use. The problem is they are not easy to use.
• Filing tools - Some pet owners find that clippers scare their pets or make them uncomfortable. If this is the case, you might want to consider using a specialized filing tool. There are special grinders that are made for trimming canine and feline claws. In fact, this is often the best choice for those who want to make sure their pet's nails are trimmed perfectly every time.

Getting the Job Done

Once you decide how you want to trim your pet's claws, it is time to begin trimming your pet's nails. There is a basic process to follow to make sure he is happy and safe during this process. To tackle the job right, try these tips:

• Inspect before a trim - Claws to have blood vessels in them. You want to be careful not accidently cut this blood vessel. Before you pull out the trimmer, inspect claws to make sure they are long enough to warrant a cut. Pay attention to how much needs to be cut before you attempt using the trimmers.
• Hold the animal tight - Once you know how much needs to be cut, make sure to hold your dog down firmly, but comfortably. You do not want him to move when you are trimming.
• Cut away from the quick line - Place the clippers on the part of the claw that does not have a visible vein.

To help you and your pet along with the process, remember you can:

• Go slowly - If your pet gets uncomfortable, stop. You do not have to trim every claw right away. Go for one paw and come back for more when you are both ready.
• Have an emergency kit ready - If you cut your pet's quick, do not panic. An emergency kit including baby powder or even flour can be used. Apply the powder to the claw and grab a cloth to staunch the bleeding. It will stop shortly. If you are using a specialized grinder to trim nails, you should not have to worry about a bleeding problem. This is one of the benefits of using this type of device instead of regular clippers.

Keeping your pet happy and healthy does involve some maintenance, patience and hard work. In the end, it is all worth it because your pet should be happy and healthy since their nails are more comfortable. Keep up with your pet's nails on a regular basis and your pet will be very comfortable.