Dog Paw First Aid
The dogs paw is exposed to different types of terrain, bacteria, pressure and temperatures. This makes paw pads prone to injuries, cuts, abrasions, punctures, wounds, blisters and accidents. The paw pads can also turn dry and crack due to extreme temperatures. Limping and licking the paw is a sign of injury, pain or discomfort the dog is experiencing. Chewing the pads, lifting the paws and any discoloration of the paws is a sign of paw injury or accident. Dog licking paw, dog paw limping are signs of dog paw pad injury or a dog paw wound. The dogs paw pads are extremely tough and hardy and also require longer healing time. The paw pads contain a large number of blood vessels which may cause excessive bleeding with the smallest scrape or cut. Dog paw care should always be part of your dog care routine. Some common steps in treating dog paw injuries can help care givers to be prepared in case of minor cuts, scrapes, wounds or bleeding dog paws.
Dog paw first aid tips
- Feel the paws gently for any unusual texture. If any object has punctured the paws you can remove the object with the help of tweezers. Sharp objects can be removed with the help of tweezers. While traveling, carry a pen light and a magnifying glass along with tweezers so that you can have a closer look at the object. It is important to keep the tweezers clean and dry.
- Even a mild mannered dog can respond negatively to touch when in pain. Putting a muzzle can help restrain the dog and allow you to help the dog without coming to harm.
- Dogs usually sweat through the paw pads. This makes the paws moist and bandages can also get moist faster. Bandaging dog paw can restrict healing and bandages should therefore be changed regularly (every two to three days) to stop bleeding dog paw and speed healing.
- The length and depth of the cut is an indicator of the severity of injury. If the bleeding does not stop with first aid, it is advisable to take your dog to the veterinarian.
- Dry or cracked pads can also aggravate paw problems for your dog. Dirt and debris collect within the cracks and must be cleansed regularly to keep the pads dirt free. The rough pads can also be moisturized with foot pad creams to avoid drying and cracking. Wearing dog paw booties will also help the injured paw recuperate faster.
- Prevention is surely better than cure. Reduce the risk of dog paw injuries by keeping sharp objects away from your dogs reach. Keeping your yard clutter free can also help avoid injuries to the dogs paw.