My dog's dew claw is broken. Can I wait until the vet opens?

Question

My dogs dew claw is pointing out, we think it might be broken. Do we need to call an emergency vet or will he be OK till the morning when they open? Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | unneutered | 1 year and 9 months old

Angel Alvarado, LVT · Accepted Answer

If he is painful, he should be seen sooner rather than later if only for pain management. If he seems comfortable and is not actively bleeding, it can probably wait. Place an appropriately sized [e-collar](https://www.petco.com/shop/en/petcostore/product/well-and-good-e-collar) (cone) on him to prevent licking until you see the veterinarian. Crate him or restrict his activity if possible. A fractured dewclaw may need to be removed surgically. If only the nail is broken, it should be trimmed back and wrapped lightly until healed. Afterwards, [keep nails trimmed](https://www.petcoach.co/article/trimming-your-dog-s-nails-with-a-clipper) to prevent snags or breaks.

My dog's dew claw is broken. Can I wait until the vet opens?

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