The pads on your dog’s paws are sensitive to extreme heat and cold. During winter, the snow, ice, and frigid temperatures can cause frostbite and frozen pads. If you’re trying to avoid a trip to the animal hospital this season, use the tips below to protect your pup’s paws.

How to Approach Puppy Paw Care During Winter

1. Keep Walks Short

Before you take your dog on a walk this winter, take a step outside to determine if it’s too cold. If you have a short-hair breed, consider wrapping them up in a warm doggie sweater before heading out. This will help keep them from shivering and developing any cold-related illnesses. Remember, if it’s too cold for you, then it’s likely too cold for your pup. Being exposed to the elements for too long can cause frostbite and require a trip to an animal hospital for treatment.

2. Make Them Wear Booties

Strapping booties onto your pup for the first time will make them feel awkward, and they may walk a little funny until they are used to the feeling. However, these are the best way to protect your dog’s paws in the winter from the snow and salt on the sidewalks.

If you need paw measurements or recommendations, ask your local animal hospital how to properly fit your dog to a set of boots. Equipping them with the correct size will ensure that they don’t slide off while walking.

3. Dry Them Off With a Warm Towel

If you let your dog outside in the backyard to relieve themselves, keep a warm towel by the back door. Wrap them up as soon as they come inside and warm their paws in your hand using the towel. To clear their paws of any compacted snow and ice, use a warm bowl of water to melt away the cold and warm your pup up. If you can, blow-dry their paws off so that any remaining water doesn’t freeze the next time they go to the bathroom outside.

If your pup experiences frostbite or severely frozen paws this winter, take them to see the veterinarians at Pet Center Ltd. in Columbia, MO. With more than 100 years of combined experience, this animal hospital offers routine wellness exams, dental care, boarding, pain management, and more to help keep your pets happy and healthy. To schedule your appointment or to speak to a staff member, call (573) 445-3000. You can also find more pet wellness information on their website.