Q. He broke his nail at the base and I can’t get it off
He was playing outside and when he came back in it was ripped and I can’t get it off without it bleeding everywhere is it okay to leave it attached
What are causes & treatment?
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Thank you for reaching out to us. Thank you for the photo. Unfortunately, I can't really see clearly because it is too dark. You need to restrain him from any unnecessary motions first and calm him down. If it is bleeding, you need to control the bleeding first by gently compressing the site with gauze or a sterile cloth. Is the nail completely ripped or is it hanging? If it is hanging, you need to gently remove the remaining parts and you should visit the clinic if you are not confident with the procedure. Then, controlling the pain and protecting the nail bed will be carried out simultaneously which requires a visit to the clinic in most cases due to necessary prescriptions. You should also put an e-collar on him to prevent any possible interaction with the paw. Please bring him to the vet ASAP as leaving the broken toenail untreated can result in significant blood loss and secondary infections which really complicates the situation.
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Thank you.
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