Just like humans take care of their feet, your dog’s paws should also be taken care of. Their feet can be hurt by harsh weather conditions especially during winter, pebbles as they walk, hot pavement types and other injuries while walking or running. This winter, the best thing is that you can protect dog paws in various ways. Besides buying dog boots, you can use a balm, do regular grooming and use home remedies especially to prevent cracking.
Protecting Dogs Paws
- Get Dog Boots: Dogs also have shoes that can protect their paws. Dog boots are widely available, and there are varieties to choose from. There are long and short term boots. To keep the boots in place, they should be close fitting, and that is why most come with a strap. With these boots, the paws will not crack during winter, and the dog will not be hurt by hot surfaces. The shoes are comfortable with some having rubber soles while others have traction.
- Getting Socks or Peel and Stick Pads: Another great option for preventing cracked paws on your dog is by getting dogs’ socks. Just like the boots, they can prevent cracking especially during winter and the effects of heat during summer. Peel and stick pads are also an option with some of them being reusable.
- Moisturize your pet’s paws: Cracking can be very painful on a dog, and that is why you should protect dog paws. Moisturizing with a pad moisturizer or paw wax specifically made for this is a great way to prevent cracking especially during winter. Moisturizing prevents cracking, peeling and heat related injuries. Moisturizing should be done on a daily basis as this will keep away numerous issues.
- Remove Salt and De-Icers: During winter the weather is very tough on dogs, and with most pavement being treated with salt and de-icers, your canine friend can suffer from cracked paws. If your dog is not wearing dog boots, you should keep them away from such pavements. If you have to use salt or other deice product at your home, make sure you get the pet-friendly ones helps in protecting dogs paws. After a walk outside during winter, clean your dogs paws to get rid of any salt or de-icer product that may be stuck.
- Regular grooming is a great way to prevent cracked paws. This involves cutting the long hair around the paws that could also lead to discomfort. Pay attention to the paws on a weekly basis and do your best to maintain short nails. This removes any debris that might be trapped on the dog. Keep your home clear of the things that can injure him such as torn carpet, splintered wood or broken glass. During winter, wipe the paws to remove any ice or snow as not doing this can lead to paw trauma.
Protecting dogs paws is essential to a happy healthy pet, with a low yearly vet bill, Following the tips above will help this winter ensure your dogs paws are well maintained.
