Trimming long nails

Question
My two year old Lab-Beagel mix has very long black nails. The groomer is afraid to trim them, because it is impossable to see where the vein is.I have been told to have them surgicly cut back to solve this problem. Is this a good option? Is it painful? Will it solve the problem?

Answer
If your groomer is afraid to cut them...then see another groomer. That part of the job. Groomers have more experience then a vet, and are cheaper. If you want them cut way back, they will knock the dog out ($$$$$$) and cut them back and cauterize them. It is not painful if they are out and it will solve the problem, but then you MUST keep up with monthly trimmings or you will end up with the same problem.
I would go to a different groomer and keep visiting just for a nail trim once a month. The vein in the nail will recede with each trim and you will be able to get back where they should be.
Good Luck, Wendy