Saturday, January 10, 2015

Feet And Paw Care For Your Dogs

By Sara Reighard


Feet need care, whether they belong to you or your favorite furry companion. Paw problems can lead to great discomfort for your dog, so it is important to make sure you provide proper foot care. Here are some tips that will transform you into a pup podiatrist.

To get around different places, dog's feet are used along the way however, this is not their entire purpose. In these paws exists pads with sweat glands which helps dogs cool down. Some first aid should be applied right away whenever a scrape or cut occurs. Use a mild-antibacterial wash along with an anti-bacterial cream in treating them especially when they allow doing so. Check the wounds from time to time to ensure that it is healing properly.

To keep your dog from getting scrapes on the paws in the first place, it is best to keep them in safe areas such as in your yard and on the grass. Often dogs become injured when they run off and wander into shrubbery or bushes. If your dog is the type to run off frequently, it might be wise investing in some quality dog training. Seattle residents could consider contacting Seattle Family Dog Training for some helpful classes. A Seattle dog trainer can help you teach your dog basic obedience skills which can keep him or her from running off and getting into trouble and becoming injured.

Paws need the extra protection particularly during very hot or intense cold weather. During a very hot weather, the ground as well becomes hot and this can cause burns and even blisters. Consider walking only in areas with plenty of grass when you decide to go out for a summer walk. At times, it is practical to stay indoors and engage in backyard play rather than compromising your dog's paws on an extremely hot day.

During the winter, new obstacles and challenges come up with paw problems. Our skin as well as the dog's paw can become very dry and crack which makes it uncomfortable. Use a moisturizer made specifically for dogs instead of using your own lotion in treating a dry paw. Be sure that de-icing products are cleaned when rinsing and wiping paws on a regular basis as these can be dangerous to dogs especially if you live in an area that is prone to snow.

You might notice that your dog licks his paws all the time, and this could be an indication of several things. Sometimes dogs simply lick because they are bored or even anxious, and they might need more play time or perhaps you need to address their anxiety issues in some way. A Seattle dog trainer can be a helpful resource if a dog is nervous or anxious much of the time. Other reasons why dogs lick include having allergies or dry skin. For dry skin, consider a dog paw moisturizer and for allergies, carefully wipe paws after a walk and talk to your veterinarian about other helpful tips. Sometimes a dog licks because they are in pain, so be sure to also check a paw for any cuts, scrapes or perhaps a pebble or thorn.




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