Trimming Nails - Septic Powder or Gel?

[MyDogShelby]

As far back as I can remember we have always used the Septic Powder (yellow powder) for dogs when we trim their nails. For those of you who aren't familiar with this product, it is a powder substance that you apply to a nail, after it is cut, and if it is bleeding. It stops the bleeding.

We went to PetSmart to get another container of it, and I was really surprised at how expensive it was for such a very small amount. $10 for .5 ounces...you open the container, and its only half full!

The Septic Gel, made by the same company (Quik Stop) is also $10, but you get a lot more of it. I've never used the Gel and wonder who well it works in comparison to the powder.

Have any of you used the Gel? How quickly does it dry? Is it as good as the powder version?

Also, is there something else I can use to stop the bleeding, something that is found around my house that would work as well as the septic powder?

[sheplovr]

Hey Honey I have raised and hand fed birds, always used and still have Septic Powder. Also have treats if the dog is not used to this. I am lucky I have never had to trim my dogs, they ware them down in kennels and just running together. But, I keep for a Budgie I have hung onto, he is sweet also, talks ones leg off when I am in this room. Just my opinion that worked on the birds feet that bleed quickly and do not have much blood. I also did get a large file for our feet and now and then file the edge down to look better on some. Just one dollar at a Dollar Store.

[KatzNK9]

I haven't actually cut a nail too short in many years so I didn't feel I needed a big supply. I've never tried the gel so I have no clue.

Instead, I bought this product for trimming Ozzy's nails:

Bamboo Nail Clipper (http://www.petsmart.com/global/product_detail.jsp?PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=84552444180 5846&FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=2534374302026121&ASSORTMENT%3C%3East_id=2534374302023689&bmUID=1176901103558&itemNo=1&Ntt=bamboo&In=All&previousText=bamboo&N=2)

Product description: This 3-in-1 pedicure set is a safe and easy solution for trimming your pet's nails. The professional stainless steel blade performs precise cuts while the cushioned, non-slip grip provides you with comfort and control while clipping. Styptic dispenser with nail file conveniently stores in handle. Nail care guide included.

[borzoimom]

I agree the powder is expensive, but it seems to sit here more so for assurance than for use. Also, as well, I have never used the gel or had reason to have it.

[MyDogShelby]

Yes Sheplovr, the Septic Powder works exceptionally well. If our streets were concrete and not asphalt, I think Shelby's nails would benefit greatly, they would stay at a good length.

Thanks for the suggestion Katz ;) The heads on those two trimmers are what we have already for trimmers.

The Shepherd/Collie mix we had when I was a kid was an easy bleeder.
Shelby, 95% of the time (or more), nails bleed when cut. We've always used the powder, and it works great. We apply it by wetting the end of a Q-tip and dabbing it in the powder (a cakey tip is best) and then apply it to the bleeding nail.

I was just wondering if the Gel version was any better. I have some doubts about it being so, and thought I would ask.

Thank you for replying Sheplover and Katz :)

[MyDogShelby]

I agree the powder is expensive, but it seems to sit here more so for assurance than for use.
And here it is the other way around, its here for use rather than assurance, because we know she'll have a bleeder and we'll need it.

So nobody has used the Gel...hmm, guess I will stick with the powder...after all, it works great, so why switch...

[KatzNK9]

For the cost of the stuff alone, I'd buy an extra set of nail clippers to have on hand just to have the freebie stuff included since a bad nail clip is so infrequent.

[MyDogShelby]

For the cost of the stuff alone, I'd buy an extra set of nail clippers to have on hand just to have the freebie stuff included since a bad nail clip is so infrequent.
Well, like I said above, we already have both style nail trimmers, and with Shelby, a bleeding nail is frequent. I don't think you get the same amount of powder with that set anyways. So for me, it wouldn't be worth it. :p Thanks for suggesting it though Katz ;)

[KatzNK9]

Hmmmmmm ... I see ... if you use so much of these types of products that the cost is a concern, I think I'd consider using a dremel or just a nail file instead of causing repetitive bleeders in need of treatment.

[MyDogShelby]

Hmmmmmm ... I see ... if you use so much of these types of products that the cost is a concern, I think I'd consider using a dremel or just a nail file instead of causing repetitive bleeders in need of treatment.
We have a dremel, but haven't tried it out on Shelby...but that might be something to consider :)

[KatzNK9]

You have to be very careful with that thing too. Make sure to trim "whispy" hairs on the feet to make sure they don't get caught up in it.

[MyDogShelby]

You have to be very careful with that thing too. Make sure to trim "whispy" hairs on the feet to make sure they don't get caught up in it.
Right :thumb:
Shelby gets "shaggy" feet...the hair that grows on her paws...and I like to trim it so we can actually see the nails when its time to trim them ;) Her nails are black by the way....and you know what...her feet look SO nice when the hair is trimmed :)

[KatzNK9]

LOL, Mark "won't let me" trim Ozzy's whispy hairs on his feet ... he really loves how they look.:rolleyes: Of course, I'm the one who brushes the mud & muck out of them & am usually the one who trims his nails.:confused: Possibly I should reevaluate this scenario and its "rules".:p

[MyDogShelby]

LOL, Mark "won't let me" trim Ozzy's whispy hairs on his feet ... he really loves how they look.:rolleyes:
hee hee, you mean he likes the "caveman" look, lol :p Maybe you could trim them when hubby isn't around, and then he would see how awesome Ozzy looks "manicured" ;)

Of course, I'm the one who brushes the mud & muck out of them & am usually the one who trims his nails.:confused: Possibly I should reevaluate this scenario and its "rules".:p
I think so...just who wears the pants in that household...I was sure it was you Katz! LOL :D Only joking with you ;) Yes, trimming the paw hair definitely has benefits for the dog and owner ;)

[KatzNK9]

Hehehehe ... well I DO (and you can ask him too) ... but I have to admit I think it is kinda cute too. Except for the fact that I have to use clippers instead of a dremel to trim his nails.

[vagreys]

I don't know if we are using the same product, or not, but I've used Kwik Stop Styptic Powder from Gimborn Pet Specialties. I haven't tried the gel, but I think it would have to be a lot easier to apply and manage. I'm definitely going to give it a try. I just hate it when I quick one of the hounds.

[mysterydog1]

I use the powder and prefer it.

[MyDogShelby]

I don't know if we are using the same product, or not, but I've used Kwik Stop Styptic Powder from Gimborn Pet Specialties.
Nice to see you again Tom :) Yes, I'm using the Kwik Stop powder as you are.
I haven't tried the gel, but I think it would have to be a lot easier to apply and manage. I'm definitely going to give it a try. I just hate it when I quick one of the hounds.
I haven't tried the Gel version, and while I do like the powder, I keep wondering if the Gel would be "better" is some way...I don't know.

I use the powder and prefer it.
Me too :)

[borzoimom]

We have a dremel, but haven't tried it out on Shelby...but that might be something to consider :)
When you first use a dremel, some dogs do not like the vibration at first. How I train them to get use to it is to have two people. One per takes their index finger, and tickle the dog gently between the pads of foot. Some dogs are easier if they do a different paw than what you are working on, or the same paw. Since they really cant do two things at one time, if you do it gently with the tickle they will relax quicker. Same philosphy of scratching the ears while one does the nails..Or one person rubs gently the toes..

[brunosmom]

Hi Angela, if you cut the nail to short and it bleeds and you don't have the "kwik stop" or a spectic pen you can put flour on the nail to clot & stop the bleeding....

[borzoimom]

Angela- I keep rereading this thread over and over. Let me toss something out to you.. Femka had overgrown nails from years of neglect. We tried triming her back over and over- either we would get a nick- but still no way were they short enough to not later damage to her toes possibily. Finally, we just bit the bullet, and had the vet put her under and cut them back. This later made the quicks where they needed to be. No more nicks- no more bi weekly possible pain from nicks, and it worked out.
As you know, having Borzois, anethesia is a scary thing. However- when she started to reach the point of trying to hide at nail time, week after week, a 5 minute sedation really worked. Ask your vet about it. They are not totally out- just enough to be totally 'stupid', and now no more quicks to the nails.. I was shocked to see how wide the vain really was on the pieces they saved us.. No wonder we kept nicking her once in a while.

[MyDogShelby]

When you first use a dremel, some dogs do not like the vibration at first. How I train them to get use to it is to have two people. One per takes their index finger, and tickle the dog gently between the pads of foot. Some dogs are easier if they do a different paw than what you are working on, or the same paw. Since they really cant do two things at one time, if you do it gently with the tickle they will relax quicker. Same philosphy of scratching the ears while one does the nails..Or one person rubs gently the toes..
Thanks for the advice bmom :)

[MyDogShelby]

Hi Angela, if you cut the nail to short and it bleeds and you don't have the "kwik stop" or a spectic pen you can put flour on the nail to clot & stop the bleeding....
Thanks Jan, I was wondering if there was something that could be used that's around the house :)

Angela- I keep rereading this thread over and over. Let me toss something out to you.. Femka had overgrown nails from years of neglect. We tried triming her back over and over- either we would get a nick- but still no way were they short enough to not later damage to her toes possibily. Finally, we just bit the bullet, and had the vet put her under and cut them back. This later made the quicks where they needed to be. No more nicks- no more bi weekly possible pain from nicks, and it worked out.
bmom its coincidental that you mention this idea, because on our visit to get updates on shots for Shelby, I asked her if while she is under for the teeth cleaning procedure if we could have her nails cut back...and our vet said we could, and Shelby would be given pain medication to take at home, but that Shelby would still have a lot of pain for weeks.

We our undecided about whether or not we should opt for it or not. I don't think it would be fair to Shelby to be in pain for weeks:(, though cutting them back does have a benefit.

They grow fairly fast, and we can't cut enough off a nail at one time without it bleeding. They always bleed.

So what should I do? If the vet said "yes, we could do it, and Shelby wouldn't have any pain thereafter", then we would've opted for it when she went to have her teeth cleaned...but the vet said the opposite (on the pain part) and I don't know what to do.

[borzoimom]

Okay- femka is the biggest " drama queen" I have ever owned. Anything hurts- boy do you know it! However- She was just fine- including the day I picked her up. The only side effect I found from this, was she loves to fly up the stairs from the deck to the porch. She was use to getting alot of traction from those nails and slipped. No big deal, as we slowed her down as she came at the stairs.. She also turned into a prancing pony afterwords- obviously quite proud of her danty little feet.. lol. The septic was put on instantly, so have some but we did not have to reapply it. Now my black bullet- is just that- FLYING on her trimed nails. Obviously it felt better on her wrists so to speak.. That quick seals fast. I am glad we did it. With her advancing age, joint problems can occur- and on top of that- the trama of quicking her nails at a trim is overwith!
//edit- She wont have any pain. Now sometimes in a teeth cleaning, the gums are irratated- easily solved with softer food for a few days. they will give you antitiobics in a teeth cleaning. Its not so much for the teeth, but for the heart.. ( yes- the heart) Bacteria in the mouth can flood to the heart just like it can in us. So give the antibiotics. She might be pain killers for a day if you vet gives them- but really- its more for inflamation.. And as I mentioned = the heart.. //

[MyDogShelby]

Okay- femka is the biggest " drama queen" I have ever owned. Anything hurts- boy do you know it! However- She was just fine- including the day I picked her up. The only side effect I found from this, was she loves to fly up the stairs from the deck to the porch.
So she didn't show any signs of being in pain after the procedure? My vet made it sound like Shelby would be in pain for weeks.
//edit- She wont have any pain. Now sometimes in a teeth cleaning, the gums are irratated- easily solved with softer food for a few days. they will give you antitiobics in a teeth cleaning. Its not so much for the teeth, but for the heart.. ( yes- the heart) Bacteria in the mouth can flood to the heart just like it can in us. So give the antibiotics. She might be pain killers for a day if you vet gives them- but really- its more for inflamation.. And as I mentioned = the heart.. //
We went ahead with getting Shelby's teeth cleaned last month...and the vet didn't give me anything when I picked her up.
Now as for the cutting back of the nails...based on what my vet said, I think I would feel kind of awkward scheduling this procedure with her since she said Shelby would be in pain after it was done, and I was like well, then we won't do it.

Now here's the thing...aren't there nerves running through a dog's nail? Maybe not all the way to the tip, but up to the part where the quick is...and if the nails get cut back, I think I can understand why the dog would be in pain after the procedure for weeks because the nerves are causing the pain. What do you think about that?

[borzoimom]

So she didn't show any signs of being in pain after the procedure? My vet made it sound like Shelby would be in pain for weeks.

We went ahead with getting Shelby's teeth cleaned last month...and the vet didn't give me anything when I picked her up.
Now as for the cutting back of the nails...based on what my vet said, I think I would feel kind of awkward scheduling this procedure with her since she said Shelby would be in pain after it was done, and I was like well, then we won't do it.

Now here's the thing...aren't there nerves running through a dog's nail? Maybe not all the way to the tip, but up to the part where the quick is...and if the nails get cut back, I think I can understand why the dog would be in pain after the procedure for weeks because the nerves are causing the pain. What do you think about that?
Femka showed no pain at all.. none- and this girl would " tell you all about" anything.. She wont be in pain, and it would not be the first time we have proven a vet wrong.. lol.. There is a nerve yes- and you keep nicking it to get her where she needs to be. so take it down where it needs to go. Femka didnt even have pain meds, and didnt need it either.

[golden&hovawart]

I used liquid band-aid.
It's a great product for both kids and dogs.
On a cut,you put a good coat and it works.

[brunosmom]

Ouch!!!! I use that...great stuff after the first 5 seconds..... burns like hell!!!