Dog Paw Pad Injuries
Most dogs do not wear shoes or protective paw wear, so they are more susceptible to dog paw injuries. Dog pads are toughened over time, but injuries can be caused by sharp objects, chemicals, and heat from sidewalks. There are multiple ways dogs can injure their paw pads, including:
- Burns from hot terrain – Did you know some surfaces can easily reach 145 degrees or more on a hot summer day? Your dog will not always react to the hot asphalt until it’s too late.
- Punctures – Dogs experience puncture wounds from various things, such as sticks or other outdoor items.
- Chemical burns – Household products such as cleaners, cement, fertilizers, and bleach can cause chemical burns.
- Bug bites or stings – Bugs travel and live on the ground. You can understand how easy it is for dogs to get stingers or bug bites on their paws.
- Frostbite – Your dog has a fat layer on its paws to regulate temperature, but it can still get frostbite in the extreme cold.
It is crucial for you to understand the signs of an injured paw pad. These include:
- Excessive panting
- Limping
- Excessive panting
- Loss of interest in certain activities
- Lethargy
What do you do if your dog has an injured paw pad? The good news is that minor wounds can be treated at home. Gently clean the wound with cold water and remove any debris with clean tweezers. If your dog has a cut or abrasion with dirt in the wound, you must soak the paw to help loosen it, then rinse it with cold water. Use antibacterial soap to disinfect the wound and avoid harsh chemicals like hydrogen peroxide. Take your four-legged friend to the vet if your dog has any of the following: chemical burns, excessive bleeding, deeply embedded foreign objects, or discharge from the paw.
