injured claw

Question
hi please let me know the best thing to do. My 5 year old very active lab has injured his claw - the innermost on his right foreleg. The casing of the nail/claw has split open lengthwise like a pistaschio nut shell and one half is missing and the inside is exposed - very bright red. He is constantly licking this although not limping I don't want to just ignore it. Should it be covered? Should the rest of the claw be removed? I'd be grateful for your advise. Thanks
Arlene

Answer
Flush it with bactine and then put neosporin on it and a wrap to prevent him from licking--change the bandage daily.  You can also get an E-collar from the pet store to put around his neck so he can't lick.  If the nail is painful, or part of it hanging there, or it has any discharge, then you should take him to the vet.