Title: Demonstrate the trimming of an animal's nails.
Course: Veterinary Science I (18105-I) > Section: Performing Skin and Coat Care

Demonstration should include

- using required PPE
- using the appropriate style and size nail clippers
- identifying the quick to avoid cutting into it
- applying a coagulant to stop the bleeding if the quick is cut
- filing nails that have sharp edges
- informing supervisor and/or owner if the quick is cut.

Process/Skill Questions:

- Why do animals have nails?
- What are the signs that an animal's nails should be trimmed?
- What precautions must be taken when trimming an animal's nails? Why?
- What is the quick of the nail? Why must it be protected?
- If the animal has darkly pigmented nails, how can one avoid cutting into the quick when the nails are trimmed?
- What are some of the dangers of having long nails on a pet?
- What are the arguments for and against declawing a pet?
- What equipment can be used to trim an animal’s nails?
- How can you determine when to use a nail grinder versus a plier nail clipper?