The Importance of the Mani Pedi

Nothing is better than a day spent being pampered at the spa. Unfortunately, more often than not we forget to have a spa day with the one friend in our lives that deserves the spoiling just as much as we do, our dogs. Healthy nails are an essential beauty necessity for both you and your four legged best friend.

It’s not unlikely to have a nail appointment set for once every two to three weeks to reward yourself with a shape, fill, and even a change in polish. Yet we often forget to treat our dogs because nail care for them is often seen as an inconvenient chore instead of a beauty and health must.

The beauty aspect of doing your dog’s nails is obvious. There are few things in life more fabulous than seeing a dog rock bright pink nail polish at the dog park. However, most importantly, there are many health benefits of regularly maintaining dog’s nails that are often forgotten.

If your furry friend’s nails grow too long between trims it can actually cause them to walk incorrectly, which can lead to damage in their leg muscles and force the nail to become ingrown into their paw. Dogs can also lose their balance and traction while walking with nails that have grown too long and end up falling on the floor.

Nail trimming is essential for maintaining good health. If a dog’s nails are allowed to grow, they will curl over into a spiral shape; walking will become increasingly painful to the dog as they grow, putting pressure on the dog’s toes (a bit like walking in shoes that are too small). Another risk from bad nail care in dogs is torn nails, which can be very painful and lead to infections. Luckily, all of these nail nightmares are easily avoidable when proper nail care is taken with your pet.

Veterinarians recommend that dog’s nails be trimmed once every three weeks similarly to the way you would take care of your own nails. The best way to go about trimming your pet’s nails is to use nail clippers that are shaped like scissors and small in size to trim around the tip of the nail (do not cut the quick), or, use a Dremel. A nail file, along with other products such as a healing pad cream and dog friendly nail polishes can also be used to re-create all the pampering of a regular manicure. If you are uncertain on how to do it, and afraid that you may hurt your dog, simply make an appointment at your Vet’s office or at a pet groomer and have them do it.