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Dog paws take a beating. They’re exposed to ice, road salt and other chemicals that may be found on the street. Inside the house, commercial floor cleaners can be another source of irritation. (However, there are some effective greener cleaning formulas that don’t contain volatile organic compounds or petroleum derivatives.)
What Causes Dog Paw Pad Problems
During the summer, dogs can burn their paws by walking on hot pavement. They can also pick up thorns in their paws if they’re traipsing through the woods or an open field.
Paw pads can also become inflamed if your dog is exposed to an allergen. Some dogs compulsively lick or chew certain spots on the underside of their paws, leading to redness and irritation.
Infections can also settle into the paw area, especially if your dog suffers a puncture wound or if a thorn or other object gets stuck in the paw pad
Paw pads can also become injured if your dog steps on a sharp object or a piece of glass.
Various metabolic disturbances, such as thyroid problems can show up on the paws. Malignancy is also a possibility if you notice an irritation that doesn’t heal, abnormal discharge or a lump. Because of the wide range of paw pad problems, you’ll want to have your dog seen by a vet, unless the cause is obvious, such as a thorn you can easily remove. (Please understand that I’m not an animal care professional. I’m just a dog Mom, so I always recommend that readers try to find a vet open to holistic dog care, because they’ll teach you various ways to keep your animal healthy.)
Dog Paw Pad Problems
There are also various natural dog paw protection creams and conditioners. These may be useful, especially if you take your pet for walks outside. If you’re shopping for one of these products, read the label carefully to make sure it doesn’t contain any potentially harmful chemicals. These chemicals will be absorbed into your dog’s system. It’s also likely he or she will also try to lick them. That’s why you don’t want to put anything on a paw you wouldn’t want to put inside of your pet’s mouth.
Cream for Dog’s Paws
You’ll want to apply a dog paw pad protection cream as you’re getting read to take your dog out of the house, since the moisturizing ingredients will be tracked on your floors. Another option if you’re not taking your dog out would be to apply the cream inside, and then put socks over the paws.
These creams are designed as a buffer between your dog and hot pavement, as well as road salt. The emollients in these formulas are meant to prevent cracking in the pads, a common problem with older animals.
Shown below is 4 Legger Nose & Paws Healing Balm. It can be used anywhere on your dog to prevent and treat irritation. It contains organic plant-based ingredients, all of them safe.
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