Cracked paws are sore and painful and can lead to severe food injuries
The nights are getting darker and the cold is setting in, and the UK’s leading canine first aider is turning her attention to canine foot care.
Rachel Bean is a qualified veterinary nurse, and regularly treats pets with foot injuries caused by a range of hazards.
And the first aid expert, who travels the world teaching lifesaving skills, says that there are plenty of simple things that pet parents can do to take care of their dog’s feet in the cold.
She said: “Many of us wonder why dogs don’t need to wear shoes particularly when there is ice on the ground and it’s very cold, but the skin and fur on a dog’s foot is very robust, and unless they have an injury footwear is rarely necessary.
“However, it is important to make sure that after a walk your dog’s paws are cleaned and dried properly, as this can help to prevent sores and infections caused by dirty and damp conditions.
“It is always important to keep the fur on your dogs’ feet trimmed and their nails clipped for healthy feet, and to avoid any tearing or injuries.
“A good paw balm is also a nice addition to your dog’s after-walk regime, as it helps their paws feel more comfortable and prevents sores developing.”
And Rachel also warned owners to check for seasonal hazards when out on a walk, which can affect your pets feet.
She said: “In the winter there is grit on the roads, which can cause irritation to the paws, and poisoning if ingested by the dog cleaning with their tongue.
“To avoid these complications, always clean your dog’s tummy and feet after a walk where salt has been spread. In this case some people do choose to get their dog some paw boots, if their dog has particularly sensitive feet.”
