Dogs fill our lives with love and joy, and really make our houses into homes. That joyful happy dance Fido does when you come home is always adorable! Of course, your pooch can’t really jump for joy if his paws hurt. In fact, Fido’s feet are crucial to his health and well-being! Read on as a local Norwalk, CA vet offers tips on caring for your dog’s paws.
Claws
Overgrown nails can be quite uncomfortable for your pet. Be sure to keep Fido’s claws clipped! If you are nervous about doing it yourself, ask your vet to demonstrate proper techniques. You can also just call us to schedule a pawdicure.
Heat
Don’t forget that your canine companion is running around barefoot. In summer, your furry pal can burn his paws on hot sand, cement, or tar. A good rule of thumb to follow is that if it’s too hot for you to walk barefoot on, it’s too hot for Fido. Paw palm can also help protect and moisturize your dog’s sensitive paw pads.
Swimming
Dogs’ paws are extra delicate when they are wet. Be very careful with Fido after he’s been wading or swimming! Keep your pup on soft ground as much as you can.
Toe Fur
Some dogs have cute little tufts of fur growing between their toes. It’s best to trim these, as otherwise Fido could get gum or other gunk entangled matted in his foot fur. Needless to say, this is pretty uncomfortable!
Chemicals
Chemicals, such as fertilizers, are also harmful to dogs’ paws. Try to avoid walking your furry friend through recently-treated areas. You may also want to get into the habit of wiping Fido’s paws down before you bring him back inside. This will also help remove pollen and dust.
Walking
Keep an eye on the ground when walking Fido. Steer him around hazards like broken glass or sharp rocks. If you take your furry buddy to the beach, you’ll also need to be careful of broken sea shells.
Tip
Does your canine pal hate having his paws handled? Offer him a yummy snack every time he does a paw trick like Shake or Gimme Five . Fido may suddenly become much more enthusiastic about having his feet touched!
Please reach out to us, your Norwalk, CA vet clinic, for all of your pup’s veterinary care needs. We’re here to help.
