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1807 Martin Luther King Jr. Way, Berkeley, CA 94709 | (510) 549-1252
Campus Veterinary Clinic
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Question of the Week: How do I trim my pet’s nails?

Pictured is an example of a dog’s overgrown nails.
It is ideal to trim your dog’s nails when they touch the ground.

Trimming your pet’s nails is a vital part of taking care of your pet.  Dog and cat nails are constantly growing, and if they are left untended, they can potentially grow into your pet’s footpads or tear off and cause pain to your pet, which could result in a visit to the veterinarian.

Depending on how much time your pet spends outside, every pet’s nail growth rate is different.  For a dog, it is usually time to clip when their nails touch the ground.  For a cat, usually every two weeks will keep their nails sufficiently groomed.

Getting your pet used to having their paws handled is essential in creating a positive reaction to the nail trims.  Using rewards or treats and showing attention are excellent ways to make sure your pet enjoys the experience.

Various nail clippers can be used for trimming your pet’s nails. Finding a pair that will be most comfortable, or easiest to use, is essential.

The ASPCA offers excellent tips on how to trim your dog’s nails and your cat’s nails.  Or, if you need a visual, researching how-to videos, like this one, can be very helpful.  However, if you’d prefer to learn how to trim your pet’s nails specifically from a veterinarian, or if you have any additional questions, don’t hesitate to call us here at Campus Veterinary Clinic at (510) 549-1252.

2012-11-16
On: November 16, 2012
In: Question of the week
Tagged: cat grooming, dog grooming, nail trim, nails
Previous Post: November/December 2012 Newsletter
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Campus Veterinary Clinic
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Lauren Marie
Lauren Marie
5 stars Dr. Pierson and his nurses are incredible: super helpful, thoughtful and give the extended attention that is needed to make your pet (and you) feel at ease!
Bob Hernandez
Bob Hernandez
5 stars Can’t say enough good things about the folks that work here. Always have had good experiences and are so glad we found them.
David Zee
David Zee
5 stars I have frequented Campus Veterinary Clinic for a little over four years now. I have only positive things to say about them. The reception staff are attentive, warm, and efficient. The nurses are kind and do everything they can to make your beloved pet comfortable. The doctors are knowledgeable, comprehensive with their examination, and always communicate well with you. They avoid over prescribing medication as well. My cat once had surgery here and she was very well taken care of, and they proactively followed up on her recovery. A+.
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1807 Martin Luther King Jr. Way
Berkeley, CA 94709
(510) 549-1252
(510) 486-1726
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Sat: 7:30AM–3PM
Sun: Closed
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