FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Application questions and tips

How many ToeGrips® are in a pack?

Each package contains 20 ToeGrips®, enough for all 16 claws touching the ground and 4 spare ToeGrips®.

Should the coat be trimmed or the claws clipped before use?

Fur/Hair: Yes, trimming long hair around your dog's pads/toes is helpful in reducing dog slipping with or without ToeGrips®. 

When the ToeGrips® touch the hair before they touch the ground, the hair acts as a "slider" and prevents the ToeGrip® from touching the ground. It is safest to have this done by a groomer so you don't accidentally cut your dog.

Claws: This would be optimal. Dr. Buzby is a passionate advocate of regular trimming of the claws. If they are too long, it can interfere with the ability of the ToeGrips® to form the GripZone.

How do I remove the ToeGrips®?

Removal is a quick and easy process. Simply touch the ToeGrip® with a fingernail/tip and roll the ToeGrip® down while stabilizing the toe with the other hand.

Can claws be too short for the ToeGrips®?

This is unlikely, but possible. Even if your dog's nails don't touch the ground when standing, the ToeGrips® claw grips may still work because the nails normally come into contact with the ground differently when walking than when at rest. But if your dog's nails don't touch the ground when he's walking, ToeGrips® can't provide traction on those short nails. But don't change a thing - short nails are optimal for healthy posture and gait!

The ToeGrips® are suitable for most dog nails, even if they are trimmed regularly.

Can ToeGrips® be used on cats?

No. Due to the anatomy of cat claws, ToeGrips® are not suitable for cat paws.

Is it possible to glue the ToeGrips®? Is this necessary?

Gluing the ToeGrips® to the claws is not necessary for most dogs. It is an alternative method of attachment that we recommend for dogs with an altered gait, such as three-legged dogs or dogs that drag their paws. This altered gait causes the ToeGrips® to be easily torn off the claws. Superglue is the simple solution to keep the ToeGrips® securely in place.

Should I apply the ToeGrips® on all claws?

We recommend attaching ToeGrips® to all 16 weight bearing claws (not thumb or dewclaws). However, some dogs may do well with ToeGrips® applied to the eight rear claws only, such as dogs recovering from cruciate ligament surgery.

My dog does not like to be touched on his paws. What can I do?

If you can work with your dog's paws even though he resists, then you should have no problems. If your dog will not let you touch his paws, realistically you will not be able to apply the ToeGrips® yourself. If you know your dog will be difficult to work with, we recommend the following:

  • Start with a tired dog - after a long walk or play session.
  • Enlist a competent helper to distract your dog and help stabilize each leg while you work with each paw.
  • Be prepared for the work. Watch the instructional videos in advance.
  • Approach the task with a confident, calm attitude.
  • If it still doesn't work, ask veterinarians or physical therapists to help you.

Can I use petroleum jelly, oil or silicone-based lubricants to apply the ToeGrips®?

No. Petroleum-, oil- and silicone-based lubricants may react with the ToeGrips® and should therefore not be used. Alternatively, we recommend the use of isopropyl alcohol, which can facilitate attachment as a lubricant.

It is not necessary to apply isopropyl alcohol to the ToeGrips®, but it makes them easier to apply and position. Isopropyl alcohol will not harm your dog's claws or the ToeGrips® and dries quickly.

Correct positioning of the GripZone

Soak 16 ToeGrips® in isopropyl alcohol - they do not need to soak. When you apply them wet, the alcohol acts as a lubricant and helps you "work" the ToeGrips® into position with less resistance. 

 

Please remember that the ToeGrips® dog nail grips must form the GripZone to provide traction. Proper size and placement are critical to success.