What meds can calm my dog for nail trims when he's scared of clippers?

Question

Which meds would be most effective to calm a dog down enough to clip nails? He had a horrible experience over a year ago at a vets and I have been working with him to hold his paws but whenever he sees the clippers or dremel he gets up and runs away. My other dog also does not allow his nails trimmed and will growl. They both need trimmed and general anesthesia is not an option. Advice? He's been to groomers and vets and no one can trim them. Pet's info: Dog | American Staffordshire Terrier | Male | neutered | 2 years and 7 months old | 74 lbs

Dr. Elizabeth · Accepted Answer

One option may be to use an oral sedative from your veterinarian. Ask the vet about Acepromazine or Trazodone. Working on some positive association may also help. You may need both the association and a sedative. Begin by having a high value treat. Start toughing his feet and reward him as soon as you touch his toe nails. Do this for a few days. Once Sparks seems comfortable with this behavior, show him the clippers. Rewards him every time he looks at the clippers. Gradually move the clippers closer to him until they touch his nail. Give him treats frequently. Then cut one nail, reward him immediately and stop the trimming for that session. Work up to multiple nails. Be patient and don't stress him or get injured. I hope this helps and please feel free to post any additional questions.

What meds can calm my dog for nail trims when he's scared of clippers?

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