An interesting case - Ingrown nail of the Dewclaw

I was presented with an interesting case yesterday. A smart looking, 03 year old, male Beagle had ingrown nails in dewclaws. In the right hind the nail had become semi circular and had embedded itself in the pad. The pad had become infected due to repeated trauma over a period of time. The left hind had not deteriorated to that extent but in a few days the nail was going to penetrate the pad.  The condition was detected when the dog was observed to be continuously licking the area.

Some deft manouevering of the nail -clipper after identifying the "quick" ensured that there was no bleeding. Luckily, the embedded nail also came out easily though it left behind an open, infected wound. A course of antibiotics and the Beagle would back to normal.

Left Hind (Note the curve of the nail)

Right Hind (Note the curve of the nail) 

A little trimming and the wound becomes visible

After trimming the nail 

Nice to Know

A dewclaw is the un - necessary toe higher up in the leg. It is actually of no use to the dog and is a nuisance as its nail often gets caught in things and clothes thereby damaging the nail. A reputed breeder will normally get it removed when the pup is about 03 days old. It is easy and nearly painless to remove it at this age. Its removal is a complicated procedure (usually done under anaesthesia) when the dog becomes adult. 

However, if not removed, it will grow like the other nails and obviously will require trimming like the other nails. However, unlike the other nails which get worn out normally as the dog runs around chasing adventures, the nail of the dewclaw does not wear out as it does not come in contact with the floor. Hence, it is important to regularly trim it.