Does your dog sometimes put his paw on your leg when he wants a walk or a treat, or just to show support when you’re down? Fido’s paws are super cute! Those furry feet are also crucial to your pet’s health and well-being: after all, without them, your canine pal couldn’t jump for joy when you come home, or race to get his favorite toy. Read on for some great doggy paw care tips from a London, ON vet.
Nails
Keeping your canine pal’s nails trimmed is very important! Overgrown nails are very uncomfortable for Man’s Best Friend. Fido may adjust his gait, which, over time, can be harmful to his bones and joints, and can contribute to or aggravate painful issues like arthritis. If you’re uneasy about trimming your furry buddy’s claws, invest in a pair of clippers with sensors. These will indicate where to snip, taking the guesswork out of the process. (You can also call us to schedule a quick pawdicure appointment.)
Paw Pads
Fido’s paw pads are very sensitive and delicate. Your dog can get painful burns and blisters by running around on hot or hard surfaces in summer, especially after he’s been swimming. Winter also poses specific problems: snow, salt, sand, ice, and chemical de-icing agents can all hurt your pet’s feet. We recommend choosing pet-friendly de-icing products, and using paw balm or wax to protect your canine friend’s feet. It’s also a good idea to wipe your pup’s paws down every day with a damp cloth to remove any residue he may have picked up.
Toe Fur
Does your pooch have those adorable tufts of fur between his toes? We recommend keeping these trimmed. Sometimes they can get matted, which is quite uncomfortable for Fido, and can also make it hard for him to get traction on slippery surfaces.
Paws For Thought
Inspect your furry pal’s paws regularly. You’ll want to check for signs of injuries, as well as heat or swelling. Look between your dog’s toes: sometimes ticks or foreign objects get wedged in between them. To make this a little easier, teach your pet to Shake, and give him a treat every time he does. Before long, Fido will be more than happy to offer you his feet!
Do you have questions about your dog’s health or care? We can help! Contact us, your London, ON animal clinic!
