Broken Toe Nails

From Dr. Kathy – Here are some hopefully helpful rules of thumb when dealing with a dog’s broken toenail:

Broken nails can happen from trauma (nail gets caught on something). They are rarely an emergency.

1) if is just cracked clipping with a nail trimmer may suffice,

2) if broken so that it is just hanging, a quick “pull” may successfully remove (having the pet wear a neck cone may prevent biting)

3) if your pet will not allow you to touch it place a neck cone on pet to prevent licking. Take to vet if you are concerned, but most of these heal with time, keeping them clean (rinse with warm water if necessary) and prevent licking using a neck cone. Usually not an emergency. Unlikely to bleed excessively. Do not wrap unless profusely bleeding

4) a broken nail frequently “lifts” from the nailbed. Follow #3

5) if a nail is broken close to the skin and needs to be removed close to the quick, that is usually best performed by a veterinarian who can stop the bleeding and place a temporary bandage.

The nail usually regrows within several weeks. Usually leave uncovered after bleeding has stopped and prevent licking (neck cone). Do not leave covered once any bleeding stopped – bacteria like it dark, warm & moist. Antibiotics are rarely advised. Dr. Kathy

**The Vet Corner groups encourage members to establish a relationship with their local veterinarian, don’t wait until an emergency.**