[nagdu] nail trimming was Worlds best pet store + dog grooming = wicked amazing!

[Julie J.]

Hannah,

I use two different tools, a traditional nail trimmer and the PediPaws 
nail grinder.

First the traditional nail clippers.  I've tried several 
brands/quality/styles.  I'd highly recommend spending the money for some 
really good clippers.  The cheap ones either won't work at all or will 
crush and splinter the nail.   I think the kind I'm using right now cost 
around $15 and should last at least for the next 10 years.  You can 
usually buy replacement blades for the more high quality clippers, but 
by the time I need a replacement blade, I've forgotten what brand I have 
or where I got them.

Anyhow, the way I trim nails is to position the nail in the hole made by 
the open clipper blades.  I use a finger on the tip of the nail to check 
how much is poking through, which is how much will be trimmed off.  I 
generally go a tiny bit at a time, preferring to make repeat cuts if 
necessary rather than risking taking off too much.  I have trimmed too 
short before.

The second method is some sort of grinder.  Several people on this list 
use grinders.  Tracy comes to mind.  she has a much more powerful 
grinder and can get the job done very quickly.  I have the PediPaws.  It 
does eventually get the job done, but you have to be patient.   With a 
grinder you basically rub or swipe the end of the nail to take off the 
desired amount of material.

Different people prefer different methods as do the dogs.  the nail 
grinder makes a bit of noise and will vibrate the nail.  I used a bit of 
hot dog to get both of my dogs used to this.  I don't think it's their 
favorite thing in the world, but they don't fuss either.   I find the 
traditional clippers faster, but they require more skill and they leave 
a sharp edge.   Belle doesn't mind the regular clippers so much.  I tend 
to use them more when I can immediately take her for a walk on cement, 
which wears off the sharp edges.

HTH
Julie