Duclaw nail split

Question
Hi,
I have a 3 1/2 year old American Bull Terrier/Boxer mix and is about 80 lbs named Roxy.  We went camping in the mountains this last weekend and she had a blast going on walks, walking in the river and swimming in the lake.  However, as we left I noticed that one of her dulcaws was split open and she seemed pretty uncomfortable.  I was wondering other than cutting the nail down to where it had split open and keep it clean with Alcohol, what else can I do for her before I need to take her to the vet?  Is there any other meds I can give her for the pain and for any future possible infection?

Thank you!
Shannon

Answer
Hi Shannon,

Other than cutting the nail down to where it has split open, or removing the dew claw completely, there's really isn't anything you can do. Cutting or removing the nail is what needs to be done, so if you don't want to do it yourself (I wouldn't!) then it's something your vet needs to do.

You should keep the wound site clean until you can see your vet. I wouldn't use alcohol to clean the wound site, as that might sting. Instead flush the nail with some hydrogen peroxide, and smear on a good amount of an antibiotic cream such as Neosporin or Bacitracin. If you can prevent Roxy from licking it off for 15-20 minutes that would be great.
There are also antiseptic spays made especially for pets which you can find at larger pet stores. Bandaging the torn nail might cause more pain if the nail were to rub against a bandage, so leave the torn nail exposed.

It is a very painful wound, so you should not delay in having your dog treated.

I hope I've been a help.
Best of luck,
Patti