Advice for claw capsule damage in dogs

As we discussed it looks like your pet has damaged a claw. It is often painful and there is a high risk of inflammation and sometimes even infection. Our recommendation is to contact a physical veterinarian for examination and help in assessing how damaged the claw is. Sometimes the claw bone itself is also affected.

While waiting for an appointment with the vet, you can prevent the disorder from worsening by taking the following measures:

- It is a good idea that the paw and claw is cleaned by washing with clean water  or better still, a saline solution (salt in some cooled boiled water). It may be possible to just immerse the injured part in saline in a bowl or a pan without having to touch the painful part.

Do not do this if it causes you pet to become painful and aggressive. Your safety is important.

- If possible, put a Elizabethan type collar on your animal to prevent it from licking the damaged claw. Outside normal veterinary hours these collars can often be bought at pet stores such as Pets@Home.

- If possible, protect the paw with a paw bandage or a clean sock.

At the clinic, your vet  may remove any damaged claw or claw capsule. This may require sedation or general anaesthesia so it is therefore a good idea to starve you pet prior to the appointment (ask your vet for further info on this). Prescription medication such as pain relief and antibiotics may also be needed. Your vet will advice you if these medications are needed.