When a dog's nail is clipped too short, it can cause bleeding. This can be a stressful experience...
First Aid for a Dog's Bleeding Nail: Effective Steps to Stop the Bleed
Accidentally cutting a dog's nail too short can be a traumatic experience, especially if the nail starts to bleed. In this article, we explain the steps to take to stop the nail from bleeding and how to prevent the same issue from happening again.
Why Did the Nail Bleed?
Dogs' nails contain a blood vessel called the quick which is located in the middle of the nail. When the nail is cut too short, the quick is exposed and the nail starts to bleed. To stop the bleeding, the quick needs to be cauterised.
How to Stop the Bleeding
The following steps will help stop a dog's nail from bleeding:
- Clean the nail - Use a clean cloth to wipe away any dirt or debris from the nail.
- Apply pressure - Use a clean cloth or tissue to apply pressure to the nail. Hold the pressure for a few minutes to allow the blood to clot.
- Seal the nail - Use a styptic powder or a styptic pencil to help seal the nail and stop the bleeding. If none of these are available, cornstarch can also be used.
- Monitor the bleeding - If the bleeding does not stop, take the dog to the vet for further treatment.
How to Prevent the Issue from Happening Again
To prevent a dog's nail from bleeding, it is important to understand the anatomy of the nail. The quick is the part of the nail that contains the blood vessel and is usually visible in dogs with light-coloured nails. It is important to avoid cutting the quick when trimming the nails.
It is also important to use the right tools. Dog nail clippers should be used to trim the nails as they are designed to be used on dogs. Human nail clippers are too small and can cause the nails to be cut too short.
Finally, it is important to check the nails regularly and trim them when necessary. If the nails are too long, the quick can grow longer and make it more difficult to avoid accidentally cutting the quick.
Conclusion
Accidentally cutting a dog's nail too short can be a traumatic experience, but it can be prevented. It is important to understand the anatomy of the nail and use the right tools for trimming. If the nail does start to bleed, it is important to apply pressure and seal the nail to stop the bleeding. If the bleeding does not stop, it is important to take the dog to the vet for further treatment.
