Does your dog know how to Shake or Gimme Paw? Man’s Best Friend certainly knows some charming tricks. Fido’s paws are actually crucial to his health and happiness. After all, he can’t get around without them! An Ardmore, OK vet offers some insight on caring for Fido’s paws in this article.
Paw Pads
Fido’s cute toe beans are quite remarkable. They serve as shock absorbers, provide your pup with valuable information about his surroundings, and give him traction when he’s running after balls or Frisbees. In summer, dogs can get painful burns or blisters walking or running on hot surfaces, especially after they’ve been swimming. In winter, ice, salt, and sand can cause abrasions or chemical burns. Use paw balm or wax, or plain petroleum jelly, to protect Fido’s paw pads.
Claws
Overgrown nails may not sound like a huge problem, but they are a bigger deal than many people realize. If Fido’s nails are too long, they’ll interfere with the angle and positioning of his toes, which will in turn affect his gait and posture. This is uncomfortable, and can cause your furry buddy to shift his stride or stance, which puts a lot of strain on his bones and joints. That also increases the risk of slips and falls. If you aren’t comfortable clipping your furry friend’s claws, try using a nail grinder instead. Or, just schedule a pawdicure at your vet or groomer.
Toes
Does your pooch have toe fur? Your vet may recommend trimming it: it can collect gunk or ice balls. Fido can also get foreign objects stuck between his toes. Ouch!
Dew Claws
Dew claws are the extra claws on your pup’s ‘wrists’. These help your canine pal get traction on sharp curves. They also assist with keeping that chew bone in position as Fido gnaws on it. Remember to clip these as well!
Desensitisation
Does your dog hate having his feet handled? Start working on desensitizing him. Give your canine companion a yummy treat when you handle his paws. Go for something high-value, like steak. Your pooch may have a miraculous change of mind about having his paws handled!
Care Tips
We recommend using pet safe de-icing products in winter. Keep your four-legged friend on soft ground as much as you can when you’re walking him. Watch the terrain for things like broken glass, and steer him around these objects.
Do you have questions about paw care? Contact us, your Ardmore, OK animal hospital, today!
