Caring for Your Pets Paws in Winter

Imagine what your feet would feel like if you had to walk outside barefoot during the winter. This is the case for our pets’ paws, and although their paw pads are pretty tough, they can become raw, chapped, cracked, and painful during the winter. Consider the following tips to keep your pet’s paws comfortably conditioned during the colder months of the year.

6 Tips for Taking Care of Your Pet’s Paws During Winter

1. Apply Paw Balm

Paw balm is kind of like lip balm, but it’s specially formulated to be safe for your dog’s paws. It isn’t toxic or dangerous if they lick it off, but it will keep your pet’s paw pads moisturized and conditioned to help prevent chapping, cracking, and bleeding.

2. Wear Booties or Dog Socks

Your dog will probably require a bit of training before they get used to walking with booties or socks covering their paws, but these are by far the best way to protect your pet’s paws from the elements in the winter.

3. Wash Paws After Walks

Be sure to thoroughly wash and dry your pet’s paws after they go outside. The salt and deicers that are used to protect us from slipping on the ice contain toxins that are very dangerous for pets. If left on their paws, they could accidentally ingest poison when they lick it off of their paws.

4. Limit Time on the Ice

Ice edges can be sharp and easily cut a dog’s paws. Do your best to prevent your dog from running or walking over icy areas.

5. Keep Nails Trimmed

Keeping your pet’s nails trimming isn’t just important in the winter; it’s essential year-round for maintaining proper posture and healthy pain-free paws.

6. Humidify Your Home

When your furnace runs during the winter, the humidity in your home can drop significantly. Maintaining a slightly humid interior can help your pet’s paws stay soft and comfortable.

Start the New Year With Your Pet’s Annual Wellness Examination

Our veterinarians at Capital Home Veterinary Care encourage you to help your pets put their best paws forward for the new year by scheduling their next wellness and preventative care appointment. To learn more about our mobile veterinary clinic and the services we offer or to schedule your pet’s next house call veterinary exam, we welcome you to contact us today.