You adopted a 15-year-old Poodle mix, Sugar. His nails are severely overgrown—curling around and digging into his paw pads. He's limping and licking his feet. The rescue said he was neglected. Can this be fixed?
Overgrown nails occur from lack of trimming, arthritis (avoiding nail trims), or conformational issues. The quick grows with the nail—severe overgrowth means the quick has extended. The Wound Assessment AI can help evaluate paw pad integrity. The Pain Scale AI documents discomfort. The Geriatric Care Specialist explains: Embedded nails cause pain, infection, and altered gait. Gradual trimming or sedation may be needed.
Veterinary trimming—often under sedation for severely overgrown nails. Multiple sessions may be needed to shorten the quick gradually. If nails have penetrated the pad, wound care and antibiotics may be required. Long-term: regular trimming every 2–4 weeks. Walking on pavement can help wear nails naturally.
Use Wound Assessment AI, Pain Scale AI, and Geriatric Care Specialist for senior nail care.
- Overgrown nails cause pain and infection—don't ignore.
- Embedded nails may need sedation for safe trimming.
- Gradual shortening allows quick to recede.
- Regular trimming every 2–4 weeks prevents recurrence.
- Senior dogs may need help—arthritis makes trimming difficult.