Salty Paws: What to Know

It is so important to ensure that your dog continues to get exercise, even in the winter months.  But with the colder temps, there are new safety concerns that need to be taken into account.  

Salt that is put down on sidewalks and roads to act as a deicer can be dangerous for your pup!  These chemicals can cause irritation in their paws after walking on walkways and internal medical issues if ingested even from licking their paws post walk.  To keep your canine friend safe, take the following precautions when you go out for a walk:

• Bring a towel on walks. When taking your dog for a walk, be sure to wipe its paws off when you get home, before your dog has time to lick its salt-covered paws. You could even dip the paws in warm water before wiping them off if they have been through a truly saturated area. This will keep the salt and chemicals from sitting on the pup’s skin and will also decrease the amount that they may be able to ingest by licking their paws.  
• Trim the nails and hair around the paws. When your dog’s hair around its paws is long it can form ice balls between their toes, causing pain to your pup. It is also important that your dog’s nails are trimmed. Long nails make it easier for snow and ice to get in between the paw pads.
• Dog boots. Another good way to protect those precious paws is by purchasing boots for your dog. Dog boots can be easily found at pet retailers. Boots will keep your furry friend’s feet dry and away from salt and snow, plus they will not get as much into their fur for later licking!
• Paw balm. You can use a paw balm on your pup’s paws before and after you take them for a walk. The balm reduces dryness, keeps paws soft, and protects from salt and ice. 

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Check out our post over the rest of the month for other tips to keep your dog warm and healthy in the winter.