Re: Clipped Nail too Short

In Reply to: Clipped Nail too Short
Posted by:  Meagan
Posted on:  October 27, 2001 at 20:36:28

: Hi! I accidently clipped the quick on one of Luci's nails. The bleeding stopped very easily, but about an hour or two later when she was playing with a friend outside, it started again. Once again, I was able to stop the bleeding quickly. Is it possible for the nail to get infected? Also, we run 2-3 miles daily on concrete. Will this hurt her injured nail? I am planning on taking Sunday off from running, just in case. Any help would be appreciated- I hate to page the vet on a weekend for something that seems fairly common. Thanks!

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Dear Meagan,

Yes, it is possible for the nail to become infected; clipping the quick means that the blood supply to the toe has been "opened" to the elements. Take a break from running to allow the opening to close thoroughly and to avoid any problems Luci may have by favoring that paw from discomfort -- the nerve has been exposed as well.

Keep a close watch on her nail and see your vet if the bleeding continues or Luci is unwilling to use her paw.