17/01/2025
Salt and grit used for de-icing roads can pose risks to a dog’s paws. It can irritate their paw pads, causing redness, cracking or peeling.
In an attempt to remove the salt, dogs may lick their paws, but this can lead to them ingesting chemicals that can upset their stomachs or cause more severe issues. Grit found on the roads sometimes causes micro-cuts and abrasions on paw pads, increasing the chance of infection.
Prevention and Care:
🐾Use dog boots to shield paws from salt and grit.
🐾Apply a paw wax or balm before walks to create a protective barrier.
🐾Rinse and wipe your dog’s paws with warm water and a soft cloth after walks.
🐾Check paws regularly for cuts or signs of irritation.
🐾Trim fur between paw pads to prevent ice and grit accumulation.
🐾First Aid for Irritated Paws:
🐾Rinse thoroughly with warm water.
Apply a soothing paw balm or petroleum jelly.
If irritation persists or there are signs of infection (redness, swelling, limping), please call
us to book an appointment.
