David, Georgette and Nik,
I'm sorry to hear Nik ripped one of his nails.
This is a fairly common injury which you can help prevent by trimming his
nails every 2-4 months.  Somtimes even with short nails this can still
occur.  When the nail is torn more then 30%, it is usually best to see your
vet who can use a local and remove the torn nail.  Otherwise the nail is a
source of pain until the nail grows out , which can take weeks.  Also
depending on how badly the nail is torn your furry friend may need
antibiotics, because cuts on the foot can eaisly get infected (exposed t
urine and feces).  If the get infected it can result in gangrene and loss of
the toe, foot or even a fatal septecimia (infection in the bloodstream).
 
Good Luck
Dr Weiss
[log in to unmask]
301-299-4142
[Posted in FML issue 1349]