Caring for Your Dog’s Paws

Does your dog sometimes put his paw on your leg when he wants attention? This adorable habit is definitely one of Fido’s cutest mannerisms. Actually, your canine buddy’s paws are very important to his health and well-being. After all, those furry feet let your dog run, jump, and play. Taking care of your pup’s paws isn’t difficult, but it is very important. In this article, Pickerington, OH a vet offers some advice on caring for your dog’s paws.

Nails

Does your dog make a clicking sound when he crosses the kitchen floor? If so, your pooch may need a nail trim. Overgrown nails can actually cause quite a few problems for Man’s Best Friend. They’re not only very uncomfortable for Fido, they can also make it hard for him to get traction on slippery surfaces. Long claws can even contribute to medical problems, like arthritis. If you’re nervous about giving your pet a pawdicure, just call us to set up a quick nail trim appointment.

Seasonal Care

In summer, walking on hot surfaces, like tar, can give Fido painful paw blisters. Winter also brings seasonal dangers, as ice, salt, sand, snow, and chemical de-icing agents can all hurt your pet’s delicate paw pads. Try to keep your canine friend on soft surfaces as much as possible, and, in winter, choose pet-friendly de-icing products. You can also use paw wax or balm to protect your pet’s paws. Last but not least, we recommend wiping Fido’s feet down daily with a damp cloth.

Paws For Thought

Take time every day to check your pup’s feet. You’ll want to watch for signs of injuries, such as swelling or heat, as well as cuts or wounds. If you find a minor scratch, you can use antiseptic to treat it yourself, but contact your vet for anything more than a little nick. Keep an eye out for ticks as well: sometimes they attach themselves to our canine buddies’ feet.

Fun With Fido

Our furry friends can learn some really cute paw tricks. If Fido has already mastered basic doggy obedience commands, like Sit, Stay, Heel, Come, and Lay Down, have some fun with him. Teach him to Shake, or Gimme Five.

Do you have any questions about your pet’s health or care? As your local Pickerington, OH animal clinic, we are here to serve all your pet’s veterinary care needs.