It’s true to say that winter does bring a number of potential issues for your pet’s paws. From frostbite to chemical damage, it’s important to be aware of the issues and explore ways to keep your pet safe and free from harm. Luckily, there are a few steps that you can take here which are going to be very effective. 

Trim The Fur

Some pets do have long fur around their paws which will drag on the ground. This can cause ice balls to develop while they are out in the cold. They can be painful and may even cause trauma over time. It’s important to make sure that you are trimming back the fur to ensure this doesn’t happen. If you’re not comfortable doing this yourself, take your pet to a groomer and they’ll complete the process for you. 

Long nails are also an issue because they cause the paws to spread out. This can lead to ice developing between the paw pad which will once again bring trauma for the pet. 

Add Balm 

Once you have prepared the paws of your pet, you can then think about adding some balm. You just need to add a thin layer of balm before your pet goes outside. You can typically get this from your vet and there are some products that humans use which are also quite effective. Once your pet returns inside, wash the paws and remove the balm. 

After you have done this, you can then add another layer to reduce or treat any irritation that may have occurred while they were out. 

Boots

There are boots that you can buy that will keep your pet’s paws safe when walking around outside in the winter. They can be found online and in pet stores. These boots are more like socks and have velcro to keep them in place. There are plenty of pets that are going to resist wearing these and will need training before you can take them on a walk. However, with persistence, they will get used to this. 

Keep Up Their Healthy Lifestyle

It is important that your dog maintains a healthy lifestyle through winter. For instance, you need to make sure that they are eating a good diet. The best dry puppy food UK pet stores provide will ensure that your pet gets the right level of nutrients to keep their paws strong and healthy. 

While dogs still need walking through the winter months, do make sure that you restrict the amount. You need to keep a check on their temperature and ensure that they are not getting too cold. There are clear signs including shivering and walking slower than normal.

Finally, be aware that most de-icers are not pet-friendly. As such, you should keep them away from areas that have been heavily treated. This is common in urban locations. If you are de-icing your own property you can also ask your vet about the de-icers that are pet-friendly or purchase one from your local pet store. 

Catherine Gomez