Nail Trims
Simple care that supports comfort and mobility for dogs and cats in Vero Beach, Florida
Overgrown nails can be uncomfortable for pets
And can quietly affect how they walk, stand, and move. Regular nail trims help support comfort, posture, and long-term joint health. At Mermaid SANDS, we offer nail trims for dogs and cats as part of a focused care model supporting pets throughout Vero Beach and Indian River County.
Why nail trims matter
When nails become too long, they can:
- Cause discomfort or pain when walking
- Alter posture and gait
- Increase the risk of broken or torn nails
- Make slipping and falling more likely, especially on hard floors
Routine nail care helps pets move comfortably and reduces the risk of injury over time.
A note about dewclaws
Dewclaws are the nails located higher up on the leg, typically on the inside of the front legs (and occasionally the back legs).
Unlike other nails, dewclaws do not contact the ground and do not wear down naturally. Because of this:
- Dewclaws can become overgrown more quickly
- They are more likely to curl or snag if not trimmed
- Regular trimming is especially important to prevent injury
Dewclaws are always checked and trimmed as part of a routine nail trim when present.
How nail trims are performed
Nail trims at Mermaid SANDS are performed:
- By trained veterinary staff
- Using appropriate tools and techniques
- With your pet’s comfort and safety as the priority
For pets who are already under anesthesia for a scheduled procedure, nail trims can be performed easily and without stress.
How nail trims work at Mermaid SANDS
Mermaid SANDS focuses on high-impact primary procedures, such as spay, neuter, and dental cleanings.
For that reason, nail trims are offered as an add-on service for pets already scheduled for a primary procedure. This allows us to provide routine care while maintaining an efficient and sustainable care model.
Nail trims are not offered as standalone appointments at this time.
Is this service a good fit for my pet?
Nail trims may be added to your pet’s visit if they:
- Are already scheduled for a primary procedure
- Are comfortable being handled or are already under anesthesia
Eligibility is reviewed during scheduling to ensure nail trims are appropriate for your pet.
Learn more about our eligibility and safety guidelines →
What to expect at your pet’s visit
When a nail trim is added to a scheduled procedure:
- Nails are trimmed to a safe and appropriate length
- Dewclaws are included and addressed as needed
- Your pet is monitored for comfort throughout
- No additional recovery time is required
For pets under anesthesia, nail trims are typically completed quickly as part of their overall care.
Taking the next step
If your pet is scheduled for a spay, neuter, or dental procedure, a nail trim can be added to their visit.