It was toenail trimming day here at the old homestead.
Since Heidi is so sick, we decided not to traumatize her further, but the other four all got clipped and Dremel tooled. Hey, it sure beats an emery board!
Usually, Bandit has a fit. She shivers and slobbers and whines and just generally acts like I’m amputating her little feet just above the ankles. Since she’s the hardest, we always do her nails first. Besides, if we grabbed somebody else, there would be the Bandit equivalent of the Easter Egg Hunt.
I’m not sure just what got into her today, but I’m certainly not complaining. Not only was she calm and cooperative, but she almost went to sleep! It’s a good thing, too, because her little talons had grown to the point that she reminded us of a vampire or Howard Hughes. They’re still long; I couldn’t go any shorter for fear of cutting into the vein and freaking her out, but at least they’re a lot closer to where they need to be.
No, this time, Jolson decided to be the problem child. I thought I was going to need some self defense products to protect me from her; this sweet, lovable, kind little dog was growling, baring her teeth, trying to snap, and kicking with all four paws. Fortunately, BJ held her securely, and none of us was hurt.
Buddy and Ginger were none too amused, but they were reasonably well behaved, so everybody got treats. Jolson forgave the indignity after a few minutes, and everybody is treading a litter easier now. I just hope Bandit remembers how holding still really does help when I have to do this again.
I so badly need to learn how to do this. Our little puppy needs her nails clipped and I’m afraid to do it! I’ve had them done once by the vet (overcharged) and once by a groomer. My daughter gives the dog all her baths now, so I hate to take her in just for a nail clipping. Do you have any tips on technique and tools for this?
I’m certainly no expert, Lynne, but I’m happy to pass along what I do know. First, get yourself the clippers that you squeeze together, not the ones that look like scissors. You’ll have a lot more control. Then, just go for it. Dogs are very good at sensing stress, so if you’re nervous, they will be, too. If you DO happen to cut into the vein, just put a little flour on it. That stops the bleeding better than styptics, and it’s a LOT cheaper. And give lots of treats when you’re done so the dog sees it as a (more) pleasant experience. Hope this helps! Let me know how it goes.