f you’re a pet owner, you should be concerned about the health of your dog’s paws in the summer. Although there is no escaping the heat, there are steps you can take to avoid burns and other injuries.
First, make sure you walk your dog at the right time of day. You can avoid hot pavement by going to the shady parts of the park or even resting your pet in a cool location indoors.
You can also protect your dog from the heat by applying a paw wax. This can prevent your dog’s paws from cracking. To make a paw wax, combine coconut oil and beeswax. You can also purchase paw balms.
Check your dog’s paws for burns or tears every couple of days. If you notice any of these signs, stop walking and take your dog inside. You should then apply a cold compress to the paws. If there is any blood, you need to bring your dog to a veterinarian for treatment. Depending on the extent of the injury, your vet may prescribe antibiotics.
In addition to keeping your dog away from hot surfaces, you should also keep his nails trimmed. This will prevent them from splitting and causing painful problems. Long nails can cause your dog’s paws to crack. It is also important to wipe off any debris between your dog’s paw pads.
You should also apply a paw wax to the base of your dog’s paws, as they are particularly vulnerable to hot surfaces. It is also a good idea to use a paw balm on cracked paws, as it can help soothe the dry skin and prevent further damage. You can find some excellent homemade paw balm recipes online.
The Humane Society has a chart on how to prevent your dog’s paws from getting burned in hot weather. It recommends taking your dog out on a morning or evening walk, rather than during the hottest part of the day. You should also try to avoid pavement and concrete, which can heat up quickly. If you plan to walk your dog on pavement, be sure to invest in dog booties.
You should also check your dog’s paws for injuries such as thorns or cuts. This will help you detect them before they get worse. If your dog is experiencing burning, you should flush the paws with cool water and apply a cold compress. Using a cold compress can help reduce swelling and pain, and it will allow you to stop bleeding while arranging veterinary care.
If you’re not sure whether your paws are hot, you can do a quick test by holding your hand on the surface. If it gets warm or uncomfortable within 7-10 seconds, your dog’s paws are too hot. You should immediately carry your dog to a cooler area and have your paws treated.
If your dog has cracked paws, you should use a dog paw balm to re-moisturize the pads. If your dog has burns, you should apply a cold compress to the paws and see your vet as soon as possible.
