Winter can be a rough time for dog owners. Your pets need to be taken out every day and given walks in the cold and snow. Just remember that you aren’t the only one who needs protection against the winter elements. Dog paws are sensitive to ice, snow, and rock salt. That’s why the veterinarians at Troy & Wentzville Veterinary Clinic of Lincoln County, MO are here to give you a few tips on keeping your dogs’ paws safe in the chilly weather.

5 Tips for Protecting Your Dog’s Paws in the Winter

1. Invest in Booties

Though they might not be the most fashionable dog wear out there, booties offer the best protection for paws. They keep feet warm and dry while preventing contact with salt and other poisonous thawing agents. These can cause chemical burns and harm your dog if they try to lick the wounds. For pet owners whose dogs won’t tolerate booties, you’ll have to take a few extra precautions.

2. Trim Fur Around Paws

Long-haired dogs in particular are prone to getting debris stuck in their fur. This can be particularly risky during the winter, where frigid ice and snow, salt crystals, and deicing chemicals might clump up around the paw and cause irritation. Trim fur around the paws to minimize these hazards.

3. Apply Paw Balm

There’s a special balm made to moisturize and protect dog’s paws from the damages of the winter elements. Rub a layer of it onto each of your pup’s paws before going out. When you return home, give their feet a good wipe-down before adding a new layer. This will prevent cracking and dryness. Ask your veterinarian for recommendations of the most effective paw balms.

4. Keep Walks Brief

As warm as that fur coat is, there’s a limit to how much cold and snow your dog can stand. They can get hypothermia and frostbite just like humans, so keep walks short enough to prevent that. Avoid sidewalks and areas with lots of ice, snow, and deicing chemicals. Never leave them in the yard without supervision when the temperature drops below freezing.

5. Wash Their Paws

After going out, it’s important that you rinse off paws with warm water to get rid of any chemical residue that might have stuck. Towel off the moisture next, because you don’t want it drying out your dog’s pads and skin. Remove any ice or snow still clinging to their fur. Now you can take the time to soak in the warmth of the indoors—you and your pooch need it! 

For expert animal care, rely on Troy & Wentzville Veterinary Clinic. Whether your pet is big or small, these veterinarians are experts at providing high-quality medical services. You want the best treatments for your dog, from emergency services to pet vaccinations, so come to Eastern Missouri’s premier animal hospital. Call (636) 528-4534 or visit their website to learn more.