Keeping Your Dog’s Paws Healthy and Moisturized

As the summer season approaches, we will want to spend more time outdoors and bring our furry friends with us. While this is always fun, we can forget about the toll hot pavement, beaches, and tough terrain can take on our dog’s paws. To ensure your best friend stays safe and comfortable this summer while walking, follow the tips mentioned below.

Avoid Hot Pavement: Just as we do not like walking on pavement in the summer with bare feet, our pets do not like it either. The hot pavement can burn their delicate pads. Walk them on grassy areas and try to walk them during the cooler temperatures of the early morning or late evening. You should also look for areas with ample shade where the pavement will not be so hot during the day.

Provide Paw Protection: There are numerous products available that can be used to protect your furry friend’s paws such as paw boots and wax. Boots are a physical barrier that can keep the paw off the pavement and protect against burns, sharp objects, and rough terrain. Paw wax provides a protective layer that reduces the risk of burns and moistures the paw pad.

Keep Paw Hair Trimmed: Long hair can trap dirt and debris which can cause skin irritation, infections, and discomfort. Regularly trim the fur between the paw pads to keep them clean and prevent matting. Be cautious to not trim the hair too close to the skin to avoid cutting your dog’s paw.

Moisturize Paw Pads: Just as our skin can get dry and crack during the summer heat, so can our furry friend’s skin. Apply a pet-safe balm to their paws to ensure that their pads are well-moisturized. Be sure to only use products that are specifically designed for dogs as human products can contain ingredients that can harm your pet.

Stay Hydrated: The summer heat can be draining, especially during long walks and outdoor activities. Be sure to have ample water for your best friend to drink regardless of where you are. Hydrated dogs are less likely to experience dry or cracked paws.

Rinse and Dry Paws After Beach Visits: The beach is one of the best parts of summer and many of us include our dogs on visits to the beach. Sand can be hot, and it is easily caught between the toes and on the paws. After a visit to the beach, thoroughly rinse your dog’s paws with fresh water to remove sand and other irritants. Dry their paws too to prevent irritation or infection.

Check for Signs of Injury or Irritation: Regularly inspect your dog's paw pads for any signs of injury, irritation, or foreign objects. Look for cuts, blisters, redness, swelling, or limping. If you notice any abnormalities, consult your veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Create a Paw-Friendly Environment: Create areas around your home and yard that have cool surfaces and shade for your dog to rest on. Consider using pet-friendly artificial turf or areas with soft grass or mulch for your dog to play and relax.

Avoid Chemicals and Irritants: The summertime is a critical time of the year for lawn care which can also be dangerous for our pets. Using fertilizers, pesticides, and cleaning products around the exterior of your home can irritate your furry friend’s paws or be harmful in other ways. Use pet-safe alternatives and keep your pet away from treated areas of your lawn.

Regular Paw Care: Incorporate regular paw care into your grooming routine. Trim your dog's nails to an appropriate length to prevent discomfort or paw pad injuries. Clean their paws after walks or outdoor activities to remove any dirt or debris. Regular grooming and care will help keep your dog's paws healthy and happy.