Collection: Paw care

1.Why is Paw Care Important?

The dog's paws are essential for its mobility and comfort. They protect against heat, cold, sharp objects and other potential hazards while absorbing shock from the ground. Without proper care, paws can become dry, cracked or damaged, which can lead to discomfort and, in some cases, more serious problems.

Common Paw Problems

• Dry and Cracked Paws: Exposure to extreme temperatures, salt in winter, or rough surfaces can cause a dog's paws to dry out and crack. This can be painful and make it uncomfortable for the dog to walk.
• Wounds and Scratches: Sharp objects such as glass, stone or metal can cut the dog's paws, which can lead to infections if not treated properly.
• Burnt Paws: Asphalt and sand can get very hot in the summer, which can cause burns on the dog's paws. This is especially a problem in urban areas where there is a lot of asphalt and concrete.
• Irritation from Chemicals: Salt, pesticides, fertilizers and other chemicals can irritate the dog's paws and cause redness, itching or more serious reactions.
• Ingrown Claws: If the dog's nails are not trimmed regularly, they can grow into the paw, which can be painful and lead to infection.

2.Daily Paw Care

Daily paw care can help prevent problems and keep your dog's paws healthy. Here are some basic steps you can follow:

Check Paws Regularly

• Inspect the Paws: Check your dog's paws regularly for damage, dryness, foreign bodies or signs of infection. This can be done after walks or as part of the daily grooming routine.
• Between the Toes: Be sure to inspect the areas between the toes, as this is where dirt, small stones and other objects can get stuck and cause discomfort.

Clean the paws

• After walks: Especially after walks on gravel, in snow or on roads where there may be salt, you should clean your dog's paws with a damp cloth to remove dirt, salt and other potentially irritating substances.
• Mild soap or dish soap: Use a mild soap or a specific paw cleaner to clean the paws if they are very dirty. Rinse thoroughly and dry them well afterwards.

Dry the paws

• Drying: Dry the dog's paws thoroughly after cleaning, especially between the toes, to prevent moisture from becoming trapped, which can lead to fungus or infection.

3.Prevention and Treatment of Paw Problems

Prevention is always better than cure, and there are several products and techniques you can use to keep your dog's paws healthy.

Paw wax and balm

• Paw wax: Paw wax acts as a protective barrier against rough surfaces, salt, ice and heat. It helps to keep the paws moist and prevent dryness and cracking. Paw wax is especially useful in winter when there is salt on the roads, or in summer when the asphalt is hot.
• Paw Balm: Conditioners are formulated to moisturize and soften paws and can help repair dry and cracked paws. It is good to use conditioner regularly to maintain the health of the paws.

Clipping of Claws

• Regular haircuts: Clipping claws is an important part of paw care. Long claws can lead to discomfort, make it difficult for the dog to walk properly, and in some cases they can grow into the paw. Use a claw trimmer or a claw file, being careful not to cut too close to the blood vessels.
• Monitoring the length of the claws: Pay attention to how fast your dog's claws grow and adjust the clipping frequency accordingly. For some dogs weekly clipping may be necessary, while for others it may be every two or three weeks.

Protect against the weather

• Shoes and Socks: If your dog has sensitive paws or if the weather is extreme, it may be a good idea to use dog shoes or socks to protect the paws. This can be particularly useful in snow or on very hot surfaces.
• Avoid Hot Asphalt: In the summer, asphalt can become extremely hot and burn the dog's paws. Try walking early in the morning or late in the evening when the surfaces are cooler, or choose wooded areas with shaded paths.

4.Treatment of Injuries

If your dog's paws become damaged, it is important to act quickly to prevent further problems.

Treatment of cracked or dry paws

• Clean the area: If there are cracks or damage to the paws, clean the area gently with a mild antiseptic solution to prevent infection.
• Apply Moisturizing Ointment: Apply a moisturizing ointment or conditioner designed for dog paws to help heal and protect the paws.
• Keep Paws Clean: Be sure to keep the paws clean and dry while they heal, and consider using bandages or socks to protect them.

Treatment of wounds and scratches

• Remove Foreign bodies: If something is stuck in the dog's paw, such as a splinter or glass, carefully remove it with tweezers. If you can't remove it safely, or if it's deep, see a vet.
• Disinfect: Clean the wound with an antiseptic solution and keep the area clean. If the wound is deep or does not heal, contact your veterinarian for further treatment.

5.When Should You See a Veterinarian?

Some paw problems require professional treatment. See a vet if:

• Signs of infection: If the paw is swollen, warm, has a bad smell, or if your dog is limping, it could be a sign of an infection that needs treatment.
• Deep Wounds: If your dog has a deep wound or a piece of glass or metal in the paw, do not try to treat it yourself. Seek help from the vet immediately.
• Prolonged lameness or pain: If your dog is limping or in pain for a long time, there may be an underlying problem that needs to be treated by a vet.

Paw care is an important part of keeping your dog healthy and comfortable. By taking the necessary steps to protect and care for your dog's paws, you can prevent many common problems and ensure that your dog can enjoy his daily activities without pain or discomfort.

Regular inspection, cleaning, and use of protective and moisturizing products are the keys to healthy paws.