Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hello all,

I just rescued an adult male Russian, and his nails are very overgrown. I can clearly see through them to identify where the quick is, and my question is:

1.) can I clip these nails by myself?

2.)If so, what tool should I use?

Yes, you may do this your self, but it may be easier if you have an assistant. Tortoise can be surprisingly strong when resisting you pulling on their hind leg. This worked for me:

I would use good quality dog nail clippers. Don't use the cheap ones, you want them to cut clean and not split/crush the nail. Good ones cost around $35.00 or more, but they last a lifetime, quality tools a good investment I think. Some cheap ones are OK if you replace the blade frequently, most folks don't... Depending on the degree of cooperation you get from the tortoise, you can smooth the nails with a Dreml motor tool, but not really needed.

Go gradual on the nails, and trim them down over a few weeks time. Be sure to provide some rock or paving stones in the enclosure to help keep them trimmed. I never have to trim nails once they are living in the enclosures, but I have frequently had to when getting a new one, similar to your situation.

Oh yes, be prepared for a little bleeding if you are over agressive with the trimming. Direct pressure and maybe stick the bleeding nail into diotamaceous earth or styptic (sp?) powder will stop it. If you are conservative, bleeding unlikely, but best to be prepared.

Good luck, Vic H.