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Summer is almost here, which means lots of outside time and walks with our pups! Spending time outside in the fresh air and sunshine is fantastic, but sometimes it can be rough on dog paws. Here are five typical summertime paw problems that are entirely preventable:
1. Burnt and torn pads. If you’ve ever run across the street barefoot, you know the pain of hot summer asphalt. Walking or, even worse, running on its scorching and rough surface can quickly burn and tear your dog’s paw pads. Protect those tender toes by restricting your walks and runs to the cooler hours of the day and the smoother sidewalk surfaces.
2. Metal edging. Metal edging is common in backyard landscaping, making it a leading cause of cuts on paw pads. Opt for a more pet-friendly boundary like brick or concrete.
3. Torn nails. A toenail that gets snagged during rambunctious play or a full-tilt run can get pulled right off. Keep your pup’s nails trimmed short to prevent them from catching on things.
4. Grass awns. Grass awns, or foxtails, are problematic seed pods that can penetrate the skin and slowly work their way deeper into the tissue. They often end up between your dog’s toes, then make their way into the actual paw. Keep grass awns off your dog by mowing your lawn regularly and avoiding tall grasses on walks.
5. Ticks. These parasites like to burrow in tricky places, and one of their common hard-to-find spots is between the toes. Because finding them can be so challenging, the best way to protect your pet from ticks is to use year-round parasite preventives.
General Pet Paw Safety
Pet paw safety is necessary no matter the season. Here are some basic tips you can employ year-round:
- Walk your dog before surfaces become blazing hot. Early morning is best, although toward the end of the day can also work.
- Walk your dog on the grass or a trail instead of pavement or asphalt.
- Use a veterinary-recommended paw conditioner or salve to prevent cracking and to keep pads healthy.
- Consider dog booties for your pet to wear while running, walking, or working.
- Make routine nail trims a habit so long nails don’t pierce pads or become damaged and painful.
- Trim hair in between the toes to avoid painful matting and related infections.
- Check your pet’s paws regularly for foreign objects, such as small pebbles, foxtails, broken glass, and other debris.
Hope you and your canine pals have a pawsome summer!