Dog's Help

Taking care of your dog's paws is a must if you wish to keep your pet in good health. Unhealthy paws could lead to various health related issues such as obesity, excessive nervous energy, joint pain and several other problems. Here are some tips that can help you take care of your dog's paws.

Make your pet accustomed to paw care
Like your feet, a dog's paws too are sensitive. So, your pooch may be reluctant when you handle his paws. It is for this reason that you should handle your dog's paws on a daily basis. This will make your pet pretty used to this kind of contact. As a result, it will be easier for you to chip your pet's nails, treat paw injuries and also trim fur as and when required.

Watch the nails
Long nails can serve as a breeding ground for various bacteria. It is for this reason that you should trim the nails of your pet quite often. Ideally, your dog's nails should be above the ground when he is standing on all the legs. In case, you hear a clicking sound as your dog moves, it is time to cut his nails. You need to be extra careful when trimming your pet's nails. This is because a vein called quick passes through them. You need to ensure that you do not cut the nerve else your dog will experience bleeding.

Defuzz the paws
Some dogs have fur growing between their toes. it is important that you trim the fur on a frequent basis. Long fur can trap irritants and various dirt particles, which can lead to infection in the paws. Also, some times the fur begins to mat. This can again lead to foot infection.

Check the terrain on which your dog walks
You need to be watchful of the terrain on which your pet walks. When you take your dog out for a walk in the nearby park, the pavement may be quite hot. This could burn your dog's paws. Make sure that the terrain on which you make your pet walk is not too uneven. Sharp rocks, uneven surfaces, pebbles and other edgy material could hurt your pet's paws.

Check for chapping or cracking
Like your feet, your dog's paws too are susceptible to chapping or cracking. Exposure to hot surfaces or any kind of chemicals can cause dog's paws to chap or crack. Inspect them on a timely basis. In case, you notice any kind of chapping or cracking of paws, you could use dog Vaseline, paw wax or paw guard.

Follow these simple tips and you will be able to give your pet the gift of healthy paws.