Have you noticed that your dog’s little toe sits a bit higher up their leg and away from their paw’s “bed?” For some dogs, these toes are attached tightly, while in others, they’re just loosely attached to their legs. These are their dew claws, and if you’ve stumbled upon this article, you’re most likely considering to remove them!
Well, before you do, it’s best to learn more about the process and the dew claw removal recovery time as well. This can help you know what to expect and how to help your dog recover quicker after the procedure.
So to learn all about dew claw removal recovery healing time, read on!
Short Brief On Dew Claws and the Removal Procedure
Dew claws are your dog’s short nails found near the foot but don’t touch the surface. Think of it as a dog’s thumb, not having much purpose like an extra finger. It doesn’t mean it’s unhealthy, they can live with it and not feel any different.
However, people choose to remove the dew claw to fit breed standards for show. Or sometimes, the claw would catch on furniture and carpets, which causes damage to it AND can feel painful for the dog when caught on anything. Plus, there’s chicness of infections or overgrown and ingrown dew claw nails, which makes grooming a bit more of a hassle.
The removal procedure is done on puppies who are up to five days old so they won’t have to go through it as they grow older. Adult dogs shouldn’t go through the procedure unless the toe became injured or damaged from the claw.
The procedure is quite easy and done by a veterinarian, though some experienced breeders do it on their own. They may or may not use sedation or anesthesia, depending on the dog’s age. Afterward, they would quickly cut off the skin, nail, and bone of the claw with surgical scissors, then suture or use adhesive.
The entire procedure takes less than half an hour, and it’s a low-risk procedure. The only risks are either hemorrhages or infections, which rarely happen.
What happens during recovery, though? I’ll explain the recovery part of the procedure and keeping your dog comfortable in the next section.
See also: Can Dogs Get Postpartum Depression? How to Handle It
Learn all about who dewclaw removal works in this informative video:
Dew Claw Removal Recovery Time
Because it’s a very simple and quick procedure, expect them to recover a bit quicker. They won’t even need to be in the hospital for so long after the procedure.
The usual stay in the hospital is about two to three hours, depending on your dog’s health. Afterward, they’re good to go home with their bandage.
If they were bandaged, it can be removed after three days, which is usually when the wound heals. But if the wound was sutured, the veterinarian will need to remove it after five to seven days. So overall, expect your dogs to recover by one week, at most.
Here are some helpful tips to follow after the dew claw removal:
- If your dog tries to bite or lick their paws, then they may need to wear an Elizabethan collar. If they’re feeling irritated with the wound, distract her by playing with her or exercising together. Avoid jumping or excessive activity to avoid their paws from hurting
- You can also choose to spray the anti-lick formula on the bandage and if they have a change in behavior, call the veterinarian to have them checked immediately
- Always check the wound daily for any signs of infections, redness, or puffiness. If you see your dog in pain or feeling distressed, you may need to have it checked by the veterinarian
- Change the bandages daily OR when they soil. Continue replacing them as needed until the wounds heal, or when you’re given a go signal to remove the bandages permanently. I recommend you use waterproof bandage covers if you plan to go out to the park or walk around
- Some dogs may require to take medication if they feel pain from the surgical procedure. Make sure they take their antibiotics or pain meds on time and correctly!
Wrapping It Up
Dewclaw removal is normal, though you have to take caution in doing so. It will be quite painful during and after the removal, so you also have to make sure that you care for your dog well. That’s why it’s important to weigh your choices AND know all about how to make your dog as comfortable as possible if you choose to go through with the removal.
Hopefully, my article on the dew claw removal recovery time gave you an idea on what you need to do. So don’t wait any longer and start researching more about any other procedures you may need for your furry friend now.