How To Protect Dog Paws In Summer
As the summer season approaches, it’s crucial to pay extra attention to your furry friend’s paws. The scorching pavement, hot sand, and other outdoor hazards can potentially harm your dog’s delicate paw pads.
In this blog post, we’ll explore essential tips and practices to ensure your dog’s paws remain healthy and comfortable during the summer months.
- Avoid Hot Pavements: Hot pavements are a common concern during summer walks. Remember, if it’s too hot for your bare feet, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws. As asphalt can reach scorching temperatures, try to walk your dog during cooler hours, early in the morning or later in the evening. Opt for shaded areas or grassy surfaces whenever possible.
- Paw Pad Protection: Consider using protective measures to shield your dog’s paws from the heat. Dog booties or paw wax can provide an additional layer of insulation. Dog booties not only protect against heat but also shield paws from sharp objects, chemicals, or allergens present on the ground. If your dog isn’t accustomed to wearing booties, introduce them gradually and ensure they fit properly. Alternatively, paw wax can help create a barrier and prevent paw pad damage.
- Regular Paw Inspections: During the summer, it’s important to inspect your dog’s paws regularly. Check for any signs of injury, cuts, blisters, or foreign objects stuck between the paw pads. If you notice any issues, clean the paws gently with lukewarm water and mild antiseptic soap. Consult your veterinarian if the problem persists or seems severe.
- Moisturize Dry Pads: Hot weather and prolonged exposure to outdoor elements can lead to dry or cracked paw pads. To prevent this, moisturize your dog’s paw pads with a veterinarian-approved paw balm or moisturizer. These products help keep the paw pads hydrated and supple, reducing the risk of cracking.
- Hydration and Paw Soaks: Proper hydration is crucial during the summer months. Ensure your dog has access to fresh water at all times to prevent dehydration. Additionally, consider offering your dog regular paw soaks in cool water. This can help soothe any irritation or soreness and provide temporary relief from the heat.
- Trim Paw Hair: Long hair around the paw pads can accumulate dirt, moisture, and debris, increasing the risk of infections. Regularly trim the hair around your dog’s paw pads to maintain cleanliness and reduce the chances of paw pad issues.
- Tick and Flea Prevention: Summer is also prime time for ticks and fleas. Protect your dog from these parasites by using veterinarian-recommended preventive treatments. Regularly check your dog’s paws and the area between the paw pads for any signs of infestation.
Find out more about flea prevention here :-
With these essential tips and practices, you can ensure your dog’s paws remain healthy, comfortable, and safe during the summer. By being proactive and taking the necessary precautions, you’ll be able to enjoy outdoor activities with your four-legged friend while minimizing the risk of paw-related problems. Remember, a little extra care goes a long way in ensuring your dog’s well-being throughout the summer season.
If you are also worried about taking care of your dog’s paws in cold seasons. Here is a blog post with lots of information.
DIY Recipe: Homemade Dog Paw Balm for Summer Care
Introduction: During the summer months, the hot pavement and outdoor elements can take a toll on your dog’s delicate paw pads. To provide them with extra protection and nourishment, you can create a homemade dog paw balm. This simple and natural recipe allows you to customize the ingredients and ensure your furry friend’s paws stay healthy and moisturized. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through an easy DIY recipe for making a soothing paw balm at home.
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup coconut oil
- 1/4 cup shea butter
- 2 tablespoons beeswax pellets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 5-10 drops of lavender essential oil (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare a Double Boiler Fill a small saucepan with an inch or two of water and place it on the stove over medium heat. Place a heatproof glass or metal bowl on top of the saucepan to create a double boiler.
Step 2: Melt the Ingredients Add the coconut oil, shea butter, beeswax pellets, and olive oil to the double boiler. Allow the ingredients to melt slowly, stirring occasionally to combine them evenly. Beeswax pellets take longer to melt, so be patient.
Step 3: Optional: Add Essential Oil If desired, add 5-10 drops of lavender essential oil to the melted mixture. Lavender oil has calming properties and can provide a pleasant scent. Stir well to incorporate the essential oil.
Step 4: Pour into Containers Carefully remove the double boiler from heat. Pour the melted mixture into small containers or tins with lids. Silicone moulds or empty lip balm tubes can also work well for easy application.
Step 5: Allow to Solidify Leave the containers undisturbed at room temperature until the balm solidifies completely. This process may take a few hours, depending on the room temperature and the size of the containers.
Step 6: Application and Storage Once the paw balm has solidified, it’s ready for use. Gently apply a small amount to your dog’s paw pads, massaging it in to ensure full coverage. Use as needed, especially before outdoor activities. Store the remaining balm in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.
By creating your own homemade dog paw balm, you can provide your canine companion with a natural and effective solution for paw pad care during the summer months. This DIY recipe allows you to control the ingredients and tailor the balm to your dog’s specific needs. Regular application of this soothing balm will help keep your dog’s paw pads moisturized, protected, and ready for outdoor adventures.
If you don’t have time to make your own paw balm, this Burt’s Bees product is highly recommended and made from natural products.
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