[PyrNet-L] trimming claws

[MagEBroD@aol.com]

In a message dated 10/8/98 9:02:14 AM Pacific Daylight Time, aferguso@aug.edu
writes:

<< Another question from a new Pyr mom - How long should I let his claws
 get before I trim them, and what is the best procedure in trimming them?
 His dew claws are VERY long, and he scratches when he shakes (his
 favorite greeting!)  Thanks for your input!
 
 Autumn and Samson
  >>
   Sounds like it's time! If he fights you, try to go slow and start by just
holding his paw at first and turning it some and give a treat if he lets you.
Or extra attention! A reward of some kind! Get used to handling their paws a
lot by holding and stroking them a lot.  I did this with every paw at first.
Then he will not associate paw handling as always something negative to fight.
Maybe have him lay on his back with his shoulders between your legs and head
on your lap and rub his chest and belly and relax him some and also stroke and
hold paws some like this. Someone shared this trick with me once and Albert
loves it!! The whole family gets such a big kick out of him like that, too!!!
Funny sight!!   Then tried holding paw and squeezed it some and rewarded
again. Then tried to actually trim claws. Reward each claw in beginning. Then
eventually each paw and eventually just at the end of entire trimming.  It may
take you days or even a whole week to get them all done at first, depending on
how he behaves. That's OK. It'll get better eventually. It is something that
must be done one way or another. This way makes it less of a struggle, I
think.
   Be careful not to clip them back too much or they will bleed. If you look
closely you can usually see where they get darker where the blood is. I prefer
to clip them before they curl too much and before they are scratching us and
the oak floor. It depends on the dog and his activities and where he is kept
and where he walks as to how often they will need to be trimmed. Some surfaces
and activities wear them down quicker and then they need trimming less. Make
sure and check those dewclaws often as they don't get opportunity to get worn
down and need trimming more often. 
   My girlfriend hates doing it and prefers to take Albert's sister Heidi to
PetSmart and for $5 they do all the claws!!
   Good luck!!!

:)  &  :)```   (me grinning & Albert grinning & drooling!)

Janice Vocke
MagEBroD@aol.com
Shelton, Washington