Foot care is important for humans and dogs alike. Your dog’s paw pads are susceptible to blistering, bleeding, and more if not checked on regularly. Caring for your dog’s paw pads is simple and should be done year-round. Paw pads are even more affected during the Winter and Summer seasons, so extra attention is required for during these months.
How Do Paw Pads Work?
According to PreventiveVet, “A dog’s paw pads consist of a layer of pigmented skin, usually pink or black, covering fatty tissue. Since fat is insulating, these give your pup’s paws a bit of protection from colder surfaces in the winter,” and also “help with your dog’s balance, and provide traction, stability, and shock absorption.”
Paw Pad Care
As a general rule, you should check your dog’s paw pads after each walk. Dirt and debris can become trapped in the nooks of your dog’s paws, and can cause irritation if not cleaned properly. Spread your dog’s paws apart, checking in between their toes for any foreign objects.
Using paw wipes, like Earth Rated Dog Wipes, is a good way to keep your dog’s paws clean after walks.
During The Summer
Summer heat means even hotter sidewalk pavements. Avoid walking your dog in direct sunlight for long periods of time. Overexposure to the hot pavement can burn your dog’s paw pads, making it difficult for them to walk. Instead, stay on grassy areas or underneath some shade as much as possible.
A good way to gauge if the sidewalk is too hot for your dog is to place the palm of your hand against the pavement for a few seconds. If it’s too hot for you to bare, then it’s certainly too hot for your dog.
During The Winter
The Winter season comes with it’s own set of challenges for your dog’s paws. From snow, to salt, and even anti-freeze liquid, there are many ways for foreign objects to get in between your dog’s toes and cause dryness and irritation.
One way you can prevent paw build-up is by trimming the excess fur in between your dog’s paws. This makes it less likely for snow and salt to become lodged in paws.
Another great to prevent damage to your dog’s paws during the Winter is with the use of booties, such as WagWellies by Wagwear.
What If My Dog Doesn’t Like Wearing Booties?
A paw balm can be used on dogs who don’t like wearing booties during the Winter. Paw balms work as a protective layer around your dog’s paws, keeping them moisturized while also preventing foreign objects from sticking to them. Try Vets Preferred Paw Balm to soothe and protect your furry little one.
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Written by Vincent M.
