VN April 2022

Vetnuus | April 2022 8 It is not recommended to clip the beak with nail clippers as it can split. In practice, a Dremel tool with different speed settings is used to remove the excessive growth. Claws – a nail is a nail is a nail. The nail encloses the terminal phalanx of each digit, and a strongly keratinised dorsal plate enfolds the dorsal and lateral aspects. The softer ventral plate forms the sole of the claw. The dorsal plate has a faster growth rate than the ventral plate; therefore, the nail curls as it elongates. Once again, it is not recommended to clip the nail with nail clippers as it can result in splitting. A Dremel tool with different speed settings is used in practice to remove the excessive growth. I follow the line as indicated below by the blue shaft of an earbud. We use a battery cautery pen to seal if bleeding occurs. Feet and nail health can be maintained by providing natural branches of an appropriate diameter. Uropygial gland (Oil gland) – The Uropygial gland is a bilobed gland on the dorsum of the tail which drains by ducts into papillae. It secretes lipoid sebaceous material, which is used to spread over the feathers. This fatty substance aids in waterproofing, cleaning and reducing skin infections. Some species lack this gland. It is recommended to assess it for symmetry in the gland. However, if there are no concerns, expressing is not recommended as, over time, expressing can cause damage to the gland. Pt with the severe overgrowth after correction Dremel tool used to trim nails The line indicate where the blood supply usually stops Abnormal uropygial gland - needs investigation for cause Leading Article