Caring for Your Dog’s Paws

Dogs can learn some pretty cute tricks with their paws. Fido can Shake or Gimme Five , for instance. Your pet may also put his paw on your leg as a show of support, or as an adorable way of asking for ear scritches or cuddles. Of course, your pup’s paws are crucial to his health and well-being. Therefore, it’s important for you to take good care of them. Read on for some tips from a New Orleans, LA vet on caring for Fido’s furry feet.

If you’ve ever stepped onto hot tar or asphalt barefoot, you know how uncomfortable it can be. This is also true for our canine friends. Your dog’s paw pads are very sensitive. Fido can easily burn his feet on hot tar or asphalt. Ouch! Your pet’s paws will be especially delicate after he’s been swimming. Keep your pooch on soft ground as much as possible, especially in hot weather. You can also use paw balm or wax to protect your pup’s toes.

When walking your dog, keep an eye on the terrain. Steer Fido around potential hazards, like broken glass.

Overgrown claws can be quite problematic for dogs. Not only are they uncomfortable, they also tend to snag on things. Keep Fido’s nails trimmed. If you’re uneasy about doing it yourself, contact us to schedule a pawdicure for your canine buddy.

Does your dog have tufts of fur growing between his toes? If so, we recommend clipping these. They can sometimes collect gunk and form painful mats.

Many dogs like paw massages, just as people enjoy hand or foot rubs. Rub Fido’s paw gently, and watch his reaction. He may visibly relax!

Check your dog’s paws regularly. You’ll want to look for cuts, abrasions, swelling, and bruising, as well as insect bites. Heat and/or tenderness are also warning signs. Look between your pet’s toes: ticks and grass awls sometimes get stuck there. If you see a small cut, you can treat it with antiseptic, but contact your vet for anything more than that.

Does your pup hate having his paws handled? Teach Fido that he’ll get a yummy snack every time he lets you touch his furry feet!

Do you have any questions or concerns about your dog’s health or care? Contact us, your local New Orleans, LA vet clinic, today!