We may be complaining this week about the cold weather, but what a welcome change from the wind and rain..... and of course I'm sure we are all enjoying a break from wet dogs and mud!
However, this cold weather with freezing temperatures brings something else to
think about....
I'm sure you will agree that our dogs are not just pets but a part of the family. My dogs health, safety and happiness are the utmost importance to me as are my furry friends who visit the grooming barn.
At this time of year and during the on coming winter months there are a increased amounts of hazards for our dogs.
Whilst out walking on the roads and paths we should be aware of what can cause harm. ie Dirt, grit or substances such as de-icer, salt, rock salt, anti-freeze.
Substances left by gritters clearing roads or spray from cars defrosting their windscreens, cars leaking anti freeze on the ground or into puddles are particularly dangerous and the chemicals used (ethylene glycol) can be lethal when ingested. If your dog licks his paws after stepping in any of these substances it can cause him to became seriously ill. The rock salt that is commonly scattered on paths and pavements can cause dehydration, liver failure and pancreatitis.
..... so take care to give all 4 paws a good rinse when coming in from walking outside, even the short hair paws and an extra good rinse for the long haired paws :-))
I have a few tips to help you keep your loved ones paws in good condition this winter;
1. The winter cold and harshness can dry out the pads of dogs feet and a regular application of vaseline or paw wax will rehydrate the pads and sooth any painful cracks that may appear. The use of warm water will also melt any ice that has stuck to paws and warm up your dogs feet and body.
2. Keeping nails trimmed.
Long nails have an affect on a dog's weight distribution, making them put more weight on the back of their paws. This not only stops the nails wearing away naturally on the pavement, allowing them to continue growing long it also increases the chances of your dog slipping and injury.
Untrimmed nails also make the toes spread apart when walking. Ice and snow can then get between the toes, making it painful to walk. No fun!
3. Regular get the hair between toes pads trimmed.
The fur should be kept within the level of the pad. If allowed to grow wet feet can quickly turn to ice and cause elongated irritation as it thaws,whilst also increasing the chance of frost bite.
Snow will stick to a dogs fur and if the hair is not trimmed between the toes the snow will build up easily and can become compact. This can cause at the least sore, red paws and the worst, which is not unknown, frostbite and hypothermia.
 |
| Overgrown paws |
Long hairy paws can disguise a whole host of problems.
 |
| Over grown nail hiding under long hair |
Including....
- Over grown nails
- Cuts and sores
- Cracks, chaffs or dry skin
 |
| Most importantly be ready to have fun this winter |
 |
| Then you can relax indoors when its cold outside |
To help keep the patter of happy paws this winter, you don't need to wait until your next grooming appointment.....book an half hour appointment for a feet and nail trim.
MOST IMPORTANTLY BE READY TO HAVE FUN THIS WINTER :-)))
