Dogs use their paws to walk and play throughout the day, which is why the professionals at Westside Veterinary Hospital believe regular care is so important to ensure your four-legged friend remains happy and healthy. For more than 25 years, the veterinarian team at this full-service animal hospital has been providing pet owners throughout Statesboro, GA, with a wide range of services to keep their furry companions in top condition.

Here, the professional vets at this local animal hospital share three ways to keep your dog’s paws healthy:  

• Keep Nails Clipped: Nail length greatly impacts your dog’s movements. When nails grow too long, it can be painful for your pooch to run, walk, and even stand. To ensure your dog can move with ease, keep nails clipped. If you hear a clicking sound when your dog walks on hard surfaces, it’s time for a trim. The veterinarian staff at Westside Veterinary Hospital can trim your dog’s nails for you or teach you the proper way to perform at-home clippings. 
• Watch For Cuts: When you take your dog for walks, pebbles, rocks, and even broken glass can become embedded in their paws. If your dog has a minor cut, clean the area with antibiotic solution and wrap it to avoid infection. If the cut is more than a half inch in diameter, take your dog to an animal hospital for professional care. 
• Prepare For Extreme Temperatures: Dog paws can be sensitive to extreme weather conditions, so keep this in mind when walking your furry friend in the summer and winter. To avoid burns and blisters from hot concrete, take your dog for walks in the early morning or late evening during the summer when the sun won’t be as hot. During winter, dogs can easily pick up salt and other ice-melting chemicals on their paws. When you get back from a walk, rinse paws with warm water to remove any harmful chemicals.   

To make sure your dog’s paws remain healthy throughout the year, bring your pet into Westside Veterinary Hospital. Beyond pet grooming, this Statesboro animal hospital also provides dog boarding, microchipping, and preventative care. To schedule an appointment for your pooch, call (912) 489-1998 or visit the website to learn more about their services.