08/20/2024
Several of you have had questions, so as a friendly reminder, our pet care policy has *always* stated that pets with toenails either too sharp or too long - as determined by our pet care team - which increase the risk of injury to themselves or to others WILL be trimmed. It is *your* responsibility to make sure these requirements are met. If you’re unsure whether or not your pets meet the requirement for daycare or boarding please feel free to ask at check in.
Pets play with their teeth and their nails, and we take injury prevention VERY seriously. Our entire business model is designed with your pets’ safety FIRST! Better to do the nails, or pay to have them done, than be responsible for a preventable - and painful - injury!
Generally, healthy pets need to have their toenails trimmed every 2 to 3 weeks.
Regular toenail trimming is crucial for the overall health and well-being of pets. Proper length and shape has always been a requirement for attendance here at Dirty Dog, and while we apologize for having become too lax in our daily monitoring due to new staff training, our policies are to be respected and upheld. We will be checking every day to ensure all are in compliance - to keep everyone safe.
If the pictures below are not enough, here are some more reasons why routine nail care is important:
1. Preventing discomfort and pain: Overgrown toenails can cause discomfort and pain for pets. They can curl and grow into the paw pads, leading to infections, inflammation, and difficulty walking.
2. Maintaining proper posture and gait: Long toenails can alter a pet's posture and gait, causing them to distribute their weight improperly. This can lead to joint problems, muscle strain, and even skeletal issues over time.
3. Avoiding damage to furniture and flooring: Pets with long nails can inadvertently scratch and damage furniture, carpets, and flooring when they walk or jump. Regular trimming helps prevent such damage.
4. Reducing the risk of injury: Long nails are more likely to get caught in objects or snag on surfaces. This can result in painful injuries like torn nails or broken toes.
5. Promoting good hygiene: Dirt, debris, and f***l matter can get trapped under long nails, leading to bacterial or fungal infections. Regular trimming helps maintain proper hygiene and prevents the buildup of harmful bacteria.
6. Enhancing traction and stability: Shorter nails provide better traction and stability, especially on slippery surfaces. This can help prevent slips, falls, and potential injuries.
It is important to trim a pet's nails with care and using appropriate tools. If unsure or uncomfortable doing it yourself, consulting a professional groomer is recommended. Here at Dirty Dog, we even take walk-ins from 10am to 2pm Monday thru Friday!