Winter Paw Care

Walking your dog outside is necessary year-round, but winter conditions can be tough on her paws. In New England we have a whole lot of winter to get through! What are some potential risk factors, and what can you do to prevent injury?

1. Ice melt/rock salt

The products used to melt ice on sidewalks, driveways, and roads can cause chemical burns to dogs’ paws. If your dog is limping by the end of a walk, this may be the cause of her discomfort. Your dog can also ingest toxic chemicals when she licks her paws (which she may be doing more frequently if her paws hurt). Whenever possible, keep your dog on grass or snow during walks, and wash her paws with warm water when you get home. You can also apply musher’s wax to paw pads before each walk – it works as a salt barrier.

2. Ice buildup

If your dog has fuzzy paws, balls of ice can form between her toes during walks. To help prevent this, keep inter-pad fur trimmed short during the winter months. You may need to trim several times throughout the winter.

3. Cold temperatures

Just like humans, dogs left outside in cold conditions for long periods of time are at risk for frostbite and hypothermia. Keep walks shorter during the winter, and get your pup a jacket if she has short fur. Booties can also be used to keep feet warmer, and prevent exposure to rock salt at the same time.

By taking some simple precautions, you can reduce reduce discomfort and injury to your pup’s paws during the winter months. Have fun and be safe out there – spring will get here eventually!

Jackie D. is a dog walker for Running The Pack and a graduate of the Veterinary Technology degree program at North Shore Community College.