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Nail Bed Infections

Pets can occasionally get infections of the nail bed especially if there is recent trauma to the nail compounded by moist environmental conditions. Nail bed infections can be very painful and require veterinary treatment.

Symptoms

Foul Odor	Red and Crusty
Oozing	Brittle Nail
Discharge	Limping
Swelling	Licking of Paw

Steps

Take 1 cup of Epsom Salt for every 2 gallons of lukewarm water and soak the foot for 10 min

Rinse off the Epsom Salt completely and then dry the foot throughly

Use a soft brush like a toothbrush with warm water and antibacterial soap to clean any debris and crusty material from the nail as long as you can do so without being bitten

Rinse off the soap and dry throughly

If the nail is broken or split and the infection has not reached the "quick" of the nail then trim off the damaged part of the nail with a pet nail clipper

To avoid any licking slip a cotton sock over the paw and tape a bandage around the top of the sock to keep it in place

Consult a vet if needed

Warnings

DO NOT cut the nail if the damage has reached the "quick" and instead bandage it and take your dog to the vet

Be aware of the location of the quick to prevent cutting it

If your dog is painful and has difficulty walking, seek veterinary attention immediately.

It is important to dry the foot off thoroughly to prevent any future irritation

Tips

The "quick" is the blood vessel inside the nail, and is extremely painful if clipped, if you feel you can't trim the nail have a vet do it

Use rubbing alcohol to sterilize any clippers and dry them

Change the sock every day to keep the paws dry and clean and especially if they go outside

After treatment, it is important to keep your dog in areas that are dry and free of environmental moisture (e.g. wet grass, mud, moist debris).

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Suggestions

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