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My dog's dew claw is injured and dangly. Can I wait to see the vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Jack Russell Terrier | Male | unneutered | 2 years and 5 months old

My jack russle has caught his dew claw, it's not bleeding or anything but does look abit dangly, it is bothering him but he don't seem to be in bad pain, obviously he does need to see the vet I'm just wondering just how urgently and would he be suffering if we waited till Monday?

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Amber W

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Published on September 23rd, 2017

I think as long as you schedule a visit on Monday Bertie should be okay. I'd recommend getting a E-collar to prevent Bertie from licking the nail as this may result in infection. You can also soak the foot in a diluted chlorohexidine or diluted iodine solution and then rinse thoroughly. If Bertie stops eating, acts lethargic, starts limping, or is obsessively trying to lick the nail then it would be better to get him to a veterinarian sooner. If he remains otherwise normal I think you are okay in waiting until Monday. Torn nails can be pretty painful, but please remember there are no safe over the counter pain medications for dogs so you will need a prescription from a vet for pain meds. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach and I hope Bertie's issue resolves quickly!

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    Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on October 7th, 2018

    This will need to be examined by a veterinarian. Please make an appointment with your vet tomorrow. In thede meantime you can soak the paw with the dew claw in warm epsom salt solution to soothe it. This will also hopefully prevent any abscess from forming.

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on November 26th, 2016

    Poor Carl! Due to the swelling, which is an indication of infection, I would take him into the ER vet now. The nail will have to be removed, probably under sedation, and he will need antibiotics if the pad is infected (he may have introduced infection to the area with the licking). In my opinion, it's best to have him seen now instead of waiting until Monday.

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    Answered By Ana M, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on February 1st, 2019

    Thank you for submitting your question regarding Christian. I recommend that he sees his veterinarian. I am unable to tell from the pictures if an infection has developed around the nails causing the swelling or if he has a mass growing. The veterinarian will likely perform a procedure known as a fine needle aspirate. A small needle is used to collect a sample from the swelling to evaluate under the microscope. This will tell you to treat the problem. I hope this information helps!

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