Doggy Paw Care 101

Fido has long since officially chosen the pawprint as his personal symbol and icon. Those furry feet are crucial to his overall health and well-being! After all, he couldn’t really get around without them! Taking care of your pup’s paws is very important! A Louisville, KY vet offers some advice on caring for your canine pal’s feet below.

Get Fido On Board

You’ll have a much easier time handling your dog’s paws if he is comfortable with it. Teach Fido that he will get a yummy snack for letting you handle his paws. Once he has this figured out, start running clippers over his toes, and making that cutting sound. This should help desensitize him.

Watch The Weather

Here in Kentucky, we get both scorching heat and winter cold. Use paw balm or wax to keep your furry pal’s paw pads moist and prevent painful cracking and chafing. You can also use coconut oil, olive oil, or Vaseline.

Be Cautious Of Terrain

When walking your canine companion, pay close attention to the ground. Try to walk around potential hazards, such as broken glass or sharp rocks. In summer, you’ll also want to keep Fido off those scorching hot sidewalks. Dogs can get painful burns and blisters very quickly when it’s hot out!

Keep Nails Clipped

Long nails are much more problematic than many people realize. If Fido’s claws are too long, they’ll become quite uncomfortable. This is very much like long toenails are for us. Your pooch may shift his weight or change his gait in order to compensate for that, which will strain his bones and joints.

Paws For Inspection

It’s a good idea to get into the habit of checking Fido’s paws regularly. You may find that your canine buddy enjoys a gentle paw massage, especially if he gets a yummy snack after. Take time to look for things like cuts, blisters, swelling, soreness, and ticks.

Fun Tricks

Why not have some fun with Fido’s paw care? Teach your furry friend a cute trick, like Shake or Gimme Five. These never stop being adorable! This can also be quite helpful. You’ll have a much easier time clipping your pup’s nails if he thinks he gets a yummy treat each time you handle his feet! As your local Louisville, KY animal clinic, we’re dedicated to offering great care. Please feel free to call us anytime!