During the first snowfall of the year, you may be wondering if you need dog paw protection for walks with your pal. Much like human hands and faces, your pet’s paws are quite delicate. They’re susceptible to frostbite, cracked and chapped skin and chemical burns from de-icing agents on sidewalks and streets.
To keep your pet safe and comfortable, let’s look at how to protect dog paws from cold weather:
Booties: The best dog paw protection against cold, ice and salt.
Snow and ice can increase your dog’s risk of frostbite and can leave their paw pads painfully dry, chapped or cracked. Build-up of snow and ice between their toes can irritate the sensitive skin causing pups to limp, refuse to walk or cry out in discomfort. Some chemical ice melts can irritate the skin, causing them to limp or hold their feet up.
Booties are one of the best dog paw protection options, offering a barrier against salt-treated sidewalks and preventing snow and ice balls from forming. If your dogs is small, you can give them a lift over particularly salty areas. For extra safety, use pet-friendly ice melts on own your property and create a shoveled and salt-free potty spot.
Paw balm or wax: A smooth way to protect dog paws in cold weather.
Not every dog is a fan of booties. If yours resists, paw balm or wax is a good alternative for dog paws in cold weather. Apply a thick layer of balm before heading out on a walk to help prevent snow and ice balls from forming between their toes.
Not only that, the balm creates a barrier between your pet’s paws and salt or other de-icing agents that are applied to streets and sidewalks, while moisturizing dry or cracked pads. This method is a favorite among pet owners learning how to protect dog paws in winter without the struggle of booties.
Visual checks help with dog paws’ cold weather risks.
While outside, keep an eye on your dog’s feet. If you notice your dog limping or lifting a paw when you’re out for a walk, stop and check for snow or ice balls between the toes. Gently remove them if you can and once home, wipe down your pet’s paws with a damp towel or dip them in lukewarm water to rinse salt and ice balls away. Always towel dry their paws thoroughly.
If your pet’s paws are irritated or the pads are cracked, contact your veterinarian for advice.
Keep walks short for smart cold weather paw protection.
During extreme cold, shorter walks are safer and more enjoyable for you dog. Keep your pet warm and dry with a weatherproof coat and watch for signs of frostbite: check your pet’s paws, ears and tail for swelling, pain or tenderness, blisters or pale or blue skin.
Remember if it’s too cold for you, it’s probably too cold for your dog too. With the right cold weather paw protection, you can both enjoy the season’s first snowfall comfortably and safely!
What to consider when choosing a jacket for your dog. >>
