[Dailydrool] Nail trims, show trims

[saraberry at aol.com]

Thank you Beverly for clarifying.
 
I want to make sure the people on this list understand that the procedure that Beverly is referring to as a "show trim" is NOT something that people who show bassets do to their dogs.  

I am not sure where or who uses this terminology, but Beverly is using it, I believe in describing a procedure she requested at a vet where they use that terminology commonly and the procedure was done on her Belgian Malinois.  The procedure itself is the same that would probably be done on any dog if someone specifically requested this to be done to trim the nails way back, but don't think that this is something that show people frequently do.  They do NOT.  

All of the show people I know use very humane dremeling of the nails, which is done at least once every one or two weeks and before shows so that the nails are always the proper length for the dog's movement to be natural and unencumbered.  The dogs are used to this and stand or lay down in a very relaxed manner and they are never injured.  The nails get to their proper length and are maintained at that length.
 
Not only that, but the vet tech in Beverly's case, clearly botched the procedure she had requested.

Long nails on bassets are a HUGE problem for many pet owners.  The goal should be frequently trimmings, just a little at a time, every two - three weeks so that when the basset walks and stands, they are moving on the toes/ball of their foot.  This will prevent many joint, hip and shoulder problems that can cripple your dog later in life.

If your dog needs to be anesthetized to have their nails trimmed, I would suggest that you work with a local trainer and groomer so that you can normalize this procedure, especially when working with young bassets.  Many times, to switch how you hold the feet, how you ask the dog to lay down or stand, using a dremel instead of a clipper, or rewarding the dog with frequent treats just for touching and holding the feet without trimming until they are used to the mild restraint will make a huge difference.  If you have an older dog and your must anesthetize for nail trims, please continue to do so.  It is essential for their ability to move that the nails be trim and however you get that done, it cannot be overlooked or their ability to move properly will suffer.

Thank you Beverly again, and best hopes for a speedy recovery for Cooper.  I hope you speak with the vet in charge to make sure they know what occurred and so they can make sure it doesn't happen again at their practice.

Sara Watson, CTC
Bluefence Bassets
Member of the BHCA
Assocation of Pet Dog Trainers
Northern California Basset Hound Club
Basset Hound Club of Sacramento
Golden Gate Basset Rescue
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