Here’s the why and how of keeping your pet dog’s paws clean!
Playing outdoors is an essential activity for any dog of any size or temperament. Even taking a casual walk around the block does an animal much good. However, keeping those paws clean is also necessary for its health. Cleaning the paws relieves a dog of itchiness or even infection from dirt, allergens, and chemicals. Check out these tips for keeping your dog’s paws clean below!
Set Up a Wash Station
One of the primary ways to keep your dog’s paws clean is to set up a wash station just beside the front door. When you come back from your adventure, you will have all the tools you need at hand. This wash station can include a water spray bottle for small cleans, a small water tub, a soft cloth for wiping, and an absorbent towel for drying.
Use Paw Wipes
Instead of using warm water and towels, one can also use disposable paw wipes. One will need to specifically purchase wipes for pets, as regular disinfectant wipes could be toxic for your pet’s paws. As mentioned, paw wipes would help to both clean and disinfect. If you are on the go, paw wipes are helpful.
Train Your Dog to Help
With your dog on board with the paw cleaning routine, your job of keeping your pet’s paws healthy and the house clean will go much smoother. One can teach a dog a command such as “paw” so it will sit and give each of its feet in turn. Rewarding your dog afterward will make it even better!
Buy Dog Boots
Dog boots keep you from having to worry about paws becoming muddy, but they are better suited for the winter season. They can help keep your dog’s feet warm and protect the pads from the harsh effects of deicing chemicals and road salt. Of course, this will work only if your dog is okay with wearing them.
Keep Trim
Washing is ultimately just one part of keeping your dog’s paws clean. It is also good practice to keep your dog’s nails trimmed short. If your pet has long hair or hairy feet, it is best to keep the hair cut short as well.
Trust the Care of Your Pet to the Professionals at Everhart Veterinary Medicine!
At Everhart Veterinary Medicine, our veterinary professionals strive to provide your pet with the very best of veterinary care. We believe that the best care for your pet should be provided by experienced, compassionate, and knowledgeable veterinary professionals. With two Maryland locations in both Baltimore and Pasadena, we are always ready to welcome your pet as a new patient! Give us a call today at 410-355-3131 or 410-793-7670! For more information, as well as updates on veterinary news and topics, visit us on Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn!