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Clipping nails is an important part of dog grooming, and it’s one you can easily accomplish at home with a few tips. It can be intimidating for many pet owners, which is why the staff at Liberty Veterinary Hospital in Liberty Township, OH, want to explain the best ways to accomplish this. Following the guidelines below will ensure that you’re providing your dog with the convenience of freshly cut nails while not cutting them too short.

3 Tips for Trimming Your Dog’s Nails

1. Introduce the Clippers Slowly

It may take some time for your pet to get used to the clippers, so before you even try to clip their nails, get them comfortable with the tool first. Let them sniff and explore so that there isn’t a stigma attached to it. This may take a few days, but it will pay off in the long run. This is also a good time to touch their feet a little more so that they’re comfortable with that as well.

2. Take Your Time

dog groomingYour dog may naturally be nervous about the clipping, which in turn could cause you to clip too quickly and make a mistake. If they aren’t calm, don’t rush into it.  It helps to feed your dog treats while clipping it’s nails.  Not only does it seem to distract their attention, it also makes for a pleasant and rewarding experience. Successful dog grooming requires that your pet is relaxed, so wait until they’re ready so that you can carefully clip their nails. Try it after a walk or another time where your pet will be more tired than usual, and work your way through each nail with patience.

3. Start Small

The main worry with clipping a dog’s nails is that you’ll cut too far into the quick, causing them to bleed. If you aren’t able to identify this area, begin by cutting just a little bit at a time. You can always snip the nail a second time if needed, and make sure you do so at a 45-degree angle. This is the safest way to accomplish the job.

For more dog grooming tips and care services, turn to the professionals at Liberty Veterinary Hospital. They offer comprehensive pet care and pet surgery services at their hospital and are dedicated to ensuring your pets are healthy. Call (513) 755-9700 today to schedule an appointment, or visit their website and Facebook to learn more about their facilities.

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