Ripped out a nail!!!

JackandJordi

My little norwich terrier ripped out one of her nails yesterday while she was in the car (we had stopped to pick something up at the store). We couldn't find the nail but it is completely gone- there is a little nub but no obvious nail. She did bleed a fair amount but was walking on it ok from the get-go...obviously in a bit of shock, because although she was completely fine then she slept a lot more yesterday and today than normal.

At the "scene" I put antibiotic ointment on it and wrapped with paper towel and vetwrap (I have a horse- these things come with me everywhere ). When we got home I rewrapped and replaced the paper towel with gauze- I have been replacing it about 2x a day. The bleeding has pretty much stopped, and she is weight-bearing.

But- understandably- she is still holding it up and limping.

I could move her toe around without too much of a pain response so I am pretty sure the toe isn't broken. I have to say, I have worked for a couple vets but have never seen this happen!

Should I take her into the vet, or only if an infection seems to be starting? I would have taken her in immediately but I wasn't sure they would do anything more than what I had done, except maybe put her on some preventative antibiotics (which I am not personally crazy about). However, I would love to hear if anyone feels that I should have! I'm certainly willing to- although I am new to my area so I haven't found a good vet yet.

Thoughts? Anything I should be doing differently?

Thanks

FaithFurMom09

Im not an expert but id go to the vet just to be sure. Is there a wound where the nail was? I would be worried it could get infected, get dirt in it, etc.

JackandJordi

There isn't really an open wound, just a nub where the nail used to be. I have cleaned it and am keeping it covered with antibiotic ointment and a bandage so that should be pretty good at keeping infection at bay, I think.

Her appetite is also great, and no temp

agility collie mom

Sounds like it should be fine. The only other thing the vet would possibly do is oral antibiotics.

DJsMom

For your own peace of mind, I would just phone the vet & see what he says.

JackandJordi

Thanks for the responses everyone! I think I'm going to give it a little time and see how she improves- she's a good girl and hasn't been fussing with it or putting too much weight on it, so I'm hoping it will heal quickly and without any infections. Of course, first sign of any trouble and we will be off to the vet! I just really don't want to stress her out more than necessary.