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Trimming your pet’s nails can be a scary experience for you both. most pets don’t like it, and most pet parents dread it! The possibility of cutting your pet’s nails too close to the quick (blood vessels and nerve endings inside the nail) can make you nervous, which doesn’t help you keep a steady hand. As well, it can be a struggle to hold a nervous pet still while trying to carefully trim sharp nails enough but not too much. You want to get the whole process done as quickly as possible, yet you need to make sure there are no jagged edges that could harm your pet or your furniture. If you’ve ever suffered from nail trimming stress, take heart! There is now an easier, more efficient way to shorten and smooth your pet’s nails.

The why and how of pet nail trimming

It may seem strange that dogs and cats should need to have their nails trimmed. After all, who would do it in the wild? Cats in the wild need sharp claws to hunt and defend themselves, while dogs in the wild run daily through rough terrain, dulling and shortening their nails naturally. If your pet’s nails are allowed to grow too long, paw pain may result and normal gait may become compromised due to discomfort. This can result in joint damage, especially in older dogs.

As your pet’s caretaker, it is up to you to make sure those nails stay the right length, which means trimming nails every few weeks. It is best to begin this little ritual when your pet is young. This helps get him or her accustomed to the process and also prevents the quick from growing too long into the nail.

Pet nail trimming tips

Keep styptic powder or cornstarch close at hand in case of any bleeding.

Try not to be stern or scolding when seeking cooperation. Reassuring words in a calming tone, as well as a treat or reward when nail trimming is done, may help with compliance.

Be sure to clean your pet’s paws thoroughly before trimming the nails. This will both help you see any breaks in the nail, as well as help you to identify the quick. Trimming fur from the area on a regular basis will also help make nail trimming easier.

Be sure to hold the toe gently but firmly. try not to squeeze paws or toes. You may want to ask a friend or family member your pet trusts to help hold your dog or cat still while you do the nail trimming.

It is best to take off a little at a time if possible and check frequently for signs of getting closer to the quick. You should start to see a circle in the nail that is still the same color as the nail itself. This is where you should stop cutting. For dogs with black nails, this will be more difficult to see so it is even more important to take your time.

If you should accidently cut the quick, apply styptic powder to the end of the claw to stop the bleeding. press the powder gently into the nail to make it stick. Bleeding should subside within a few minutes. If it doesn’t, you may need to contact your veterinarian.

FURminator Pet nail Grinder – a pet nail salon in the palm of your hand

The FURminator Pet nail Grinder shortens, shapes and smooths your pet’s nails without sharp blades. FURminator, one of the most trusted brands of pet care and grooming tools, has designed an ideal pet nail trimmer that makes shortening your pet’s nails fun and easy.

Unlike other dog nail clippers that pinch and cut the nails, a fine sand-paper like grinding band gradually shortens nails while shaping them and removing rough edges. A built-in nail guide helps keep nails properly positioned and a bright LED light illuminates the nail for easier and safer trimming.

This 2-speed cordless nail trimming tool is lightweight for easy maneuverability and features an easy-grip handle with rubber strips to prevent slipping. The entire unit is constructed of anti-microbial plastic, which helps minimize the spread of germs and bacteria.

The FURminator Pet nail Grinder comes with two replaceable grinding bands and 4 AA-alkaline batteries, so you can get started right away! Replacement grinding bands are also available in packs of 6.

Win a free FURminator Pet nail Grinder!

Would a FURminator Pet nail Grinder help make trimming your pet’s nails easier? tell us about your pet nail trimming experiences and you could win a free FURminator Pet nail Grinder and one pack of 6 Replacement Grinding Bands from 1800PetMeds!

Just leave a comment below telling us why you and your pet need a FURminator Pet nail Grinder.

Winners will be chosen at random on Wednesday, April 13, 2016, so everyone who participates has a chance to win! boa sorte!

Congratulations to the drawing winner, Karen Nothacker!