A quick nail trim once a month could protect your dog from an aggressive cancer 

While humans enjoy a relaxing time at pedicure spas, a veterinary expert has suggested doing the same for their furry friends. Dr. Mark Dos Anjos, a resident veterinarian at PetHelpful, shared several reasons why a pawdicure is important for dogs and how it could prevent severe injuries. Generally, a pawdicure involves a nail trim, clipping the hair between the toes, and similar hygiene practices, like brushing teeth. There is more than one benefit to treating your pawed pal to a grooming day at places that offer such services, or simply at the vet clinic. That said, he particularly shed light on a serious, life-threatening disease that could be diagnosed early on before any of the symptoms show up, per ParadePets. 

A pawdicure done by a groomer or vet will thoroughly examine the pup for anything abnormal before beginning the grooming process. While at it, the experts may be able to identify minor changes in characteristics, like a different nail color that could indicate a much severe disease in its primitive form. The expert revealed that malignant melanoma, an aggressive type of cancer, is found in the nail beds. It is beneficial for the pet if it is found sooner, as it increases the chances of survival. Similarly, a rare autoimmune disease called lupoid onychodystrophy also manifests in the nails as early symptoms, the source reported. 

Nail care is an essential part of a dog’s hygiene and healthy lifestyle. When owners ignore this aspect of their beloved pet's care, they risk their canine's well-being and miss the opportunity to diagnose serious diseases or conditions before symptoms even begin to show. If not a full-fledged pawdicure, a simple nail trim once a month can suffice. In addition to detecting diseases, nail care and pawdicures offer other benefits. They can relieve your furry companion of pain and prevent potential injury. Overgrown nails can cause severe discomfort and injuries to fur babies and humans, as dewclaw nails grow into the foot and injure their paws. Additionally, trimmed nails and healthy paws help dogs to walk normally without discomfort, and possibly save you a hefty vet bill. 

It is well understood that getting a dog to tolerate nail trimming can be a challenge. Many pups dislike anyone touching their paws and may resist the process unless it is done by experts. Owners may fret over the right time to clip their dog’s claws. A report by The Kennel Club states that if a dog’s nails click on the floor, they’re likely too long and may affect their walk.

Nails are a normal part of growth and development in dogs, like in humans, and continue growing as they age. Taking dogs on regular walks over hard surfaces like pavements can help naturally wear down their claws. But this only acts as a temporary fix and isn’t a long-term solution. Long claws will ultimately chip, tear, and split, causing pain and injury to the pet.