04/12/2023
Make sure to check on your dogs paws 🐾
Your dog could start developing frostbite on their paws in as little as 30 minutes. Areas with less blood flow may appear grayish or pale and feel cold to the touch. Your dog may flinch or show pain when you touch those areas. If the paw pads are affected, your dog may be lame or lick his feet.
DO NOT rub or massage the affected area.
If you are outdoors, DO NOT warm a frostbitten area if you cannot keep it warm. Additional cold exposure or refreezing will more severely injure the tissues.
You may carefully warm the affected area with warm (NOT HOT) water. The recommended water temperature is 104 to 108°F (40 to 42°C). At this temperature, you should be able to comfortably place your hand in the warm water. If the water is too hot, you may cause more damage than not using any water at all. You may apply warm water compresses or soak the affected area in a bowl of warm water. DO NOT use direct dry heat such as a heating pad or hair dryer.
After you have warmed the area, pat him dry carefully and thoroughly. Do not rub your dog with the towels. Go to your vets for advice.