Nail Trimming Nightmare

[missbeckydee]

Hey everyone,

I have a dog that I watch every MWF, a sweet little ACD named Fiona. Anywho, her owner was telling me that when Fiona was at the vet a few days ago to have her nails trimmed, the vet had to call her and ask her to come back to help them restrain her while they cut her nails. She obviously does not like it at all and puts up a heck of a fight. My friend told me she started petting her, and trying to soothe her with her voice. I don't know if that's the right thing to be doing...isn't that fostering the freaking out behavior? Also, is there anything they can do to help her calm down when getting her nails done? I know it will take a while. I really don't know what to say, since I don't do Jester's nails either. Besides, he doesn't care about it at all and has never put up a fuss. Thanks so much for the help, guys!

 

[happyhound]

I worked in the grooming/kennel area at a vet clinic for 2.5 years. Dogs like this were typically restrained with two or more people and muzzled or, if extremely aggressive, sedated. It may be less stressful for the pup if he/she is sedated during the nail clipping or better yet done at home. I find it strange the vet would call the owner--that usually makes the situation worse IME.

 

[happyhound]

Forgot to add.. make sure dog has no heart issues etc that will have negative effects when combined with a sedative. Have had a sedated dog die in the bathing tub due to previous heart issues.