Dirty wintertime paws don’t just make your floors messy, but they can also cause pain and irritation for your dog. Snow, ice, gravel, and road salt can get stuck in their pads, creating sores and cracks. However, daily walks and outdoor time remain a necessary aspect of pet care year-round, regardless of the weather conditions. As an owner, what can you do to keep your dog’s paws clean after being outside? 

How Does Bad Weather Impact Paws?

Freezing temperatures, snow, and ice can wreak havoc on your pup’s paws. Snowballs can form and become lodged in between pads, clinging to the fur and even creating wounds. Likewise, potentially harmful substances like gravel or road salt can also get stuck in the pads, between toes, or under nails. Some types of salt contain chemicals and are hazardous for dogs to consume, so it’s important they’re removed before your dog licks them.

How Can You Keep Their Paws Clean?

Wiping paws after every wintertime walk is an important pet care tip to practice all season long. A warm cloth can be used to slough away any road salt, while a quick visual inspection can be useful for spotting any ice chunks or gravel. If snowballs have developed in between pads, be sure to soak them away with warm water instead of trying to remove them, as this could be painful for your dog. Should you spot any sores or cracks, be sure to have your veterinarian assess them.

There are also some solutions you can explore to help prevent paws from collecting debris in the first place. Dogs with long fur may have hair in between their paw pads, which can attract snow. A groomer can trim this down, along with your pup’s nails, to minimize the risk of accumulating snowballs, gravel, salt, and ice. Additionally, a paw balm or petroleum jelly can be applied to your dog’s pads, acting as an extra layer of defense against bitterly cold sidewalks and debris. Finally, if your dog walks through salt that isn’t pet-friendly, consider purchasing a pair of booties at your nearest pet care retailer.

While caring for your dog’s paws is an important practice, it’s only one element of comprehensive pet care. Covedale Pet Hospital can help keep your pup healthy and happy year-round with regular exams, vaccinations, flea and tick treatments, and additional animal care services. Serving the Cincinnati, OH, area, their facility offers comprehensive services, along with a pet portal to help you conveniently manage your animal’s needs online. Call (513) 251-4666 to schedule an appointment, or browse through their veterinary services on their website.