Wild elephants get a 'natural pedicure ' by rubbing their feet in the dirt . But captive animals can get foot problems if their toenails are n't trimmed . Researcher from the University of Queensland , safari park , has developed a pressure pad to measure the pressure exerted on elephants ' feet . Data could inform the best way to trim toenails and allow zookeepers to spot potential foot problems , which can lead to elephants being put down .
Wild elephants get a 'natural pedicure ' by rubbing their feet in the dirt . But captive animals can get foot problems if their toenails are n't trimmed . Researcher from the University of Queensland , Australia , has developed a pressure pad to measure the pressure exerted on elephants ' feet . Data could inform the best way to trim toenails and allow zookeepers to spot potential foot problems , which can lead to elephants being put down .