Veterinarians, like those at Waipahu Waikele Pet Hospital of Waipahu, HI, know how important grooming is to keep your pet healthy and happy. There are many benefits to keeping your dog's nails neat and groomed, for instance, but you might be wondering just how often, or even why, you should be having them trimmed.

Thankfully the vets at Waipahu Waikele Pet Hospital have some advice that will keep you at the top of your pet health game in no time:

• How Often To Trim: Depending on how fast your dog's nails grow, there are a few rules of thumb to go by in the length department. If their nails are clicking or snagging on things, it's likely a good time to give them a trim. This will also depend on the type of lifestyle your pet leads. The more active they are outside on rough terrain, the less often they'll need to be groomed.

• Best Grooming Practices: As for the grooming itself, it's something that should be done with great care. Clipping is one method, but doing so improperly could lead to splintering, and the degree to which you should trim them is pretty specific. You can also use a nail grinder, being sure to get them gradually accustomed to the strange noise it emits. If you're uncomfortable with any of this you should set up regular visits with your veterinarian.
• The Hazards Of Untrimmed Nails: Just as there are some very nice health benefits to regular grooming, there are also hazards that come about with untrimmed nails. Nails that grow too long may curve and dig into your pet's paw pads. Uncomfortable nails can lead to further problems like joint pain and the development of arthritis.

Whether you plan on trimming your pet's nails yourself or taking them to a pet doctor like the veterinarian professionals at Waipahu Waikele Pet Hospital, it's best to do so with as much information as possible. Visit Waipahu Waikele Pet Hospital online for more information, and give them a call at (808) 671-7387 to schedule an appointment today.