folks, I'm really worried about my dog and could use some advice. This afternoon, I noticed Buster limping a bit after we came back from our usual walk in the park. When I checked his paw, I saw one of his toenails was kind of cracked and it didn’t bleed, but it looked painful. He’s been licking it a lot and seems a bit more subdued than usual. I’m not sure if I should try to bandage it myself or just let it be and see if it heals on its own. I don’t want him to be in pain if it gets worse overnight. Has anyone dealt with something like this? What should I do next?
Thanks for reaching out. It can be concerning to see your dog with a broken toenail, but it’s great news that it didn’t break down to the quick. When a dog breaks a toenail near the tip, it can be due to running on rough surfaces, playing enthusiastically, or sometimes if the nails haven't been trimmed regularly.
The first thing to do is to gently clean the area with some warm water to wash away any dirt or debris. This will help prevent infection. After cleaning, you can apply a mild antiseptic, if your dog tolerates it, to further protect against bacteria. While the nail heals, it's wise to keep your dog from licking or chewing at the injury. An e-collar can be useful in this situation to prevent further irritation or damage.
Keep an eye on the toenail for any signs of swelling, persistent bleeding, or a bad odor, as these could indicate infection. If you notice any of these signs or if your dog starts limping or seems to be in pain, it would be best to consult with a vet.
To ensure everything heals properly and to get peace of mind, consider booking a video consult with one of our vets at Dial A Vet. We're here to support you and your furry friend through this!
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