This acts as a thermal insulator against cold surfaces. Paws are also involved in maintaining balance, stability and grip, as well as cooling in the hot summer months. You’ve probably noticed by now that some dogs have softer and gentler, while others have rougher and rougher paws. This also depends on the surface you are walking on with your pet (grass surfaces, sand, asphalt…).

 

Paw care

A lot of inconveniences that will occur in the coming month, are caused by snow, ice, salt and other thawing products. They can cause cracks, ulcers and dry paws. Damaged paws can make walking quite painful for our pets, and in severe cases, infections and various skin problems may also occur. Repeated transition from a cold and humid outdoor environment to a dry and warm house can also cause itchy skin that peels off in some dogs.

In addition, thawing products can be toxic if ingested by an animal while licking its paws. If you live in a city, salt and toxic soil thawing products are unavoidable. Therefore, when you are finished with outdoor activities in the winter, wipe your dog’s paws with Arava Paws and Body Wipes or wash them to remove salt and other potentially toxic substances on them.

Dogs with longer hair often get snowballs between the paws when they walk in the snow. Snowballs cause the paws to dry out. Therefore, it is recommended to cut the hair between the paws. This also prevents salt crystals from remaining in the hair. Also take care of the claws. They should be cut to the appropriate length, as long claws cause the toes on the paws to be slightly more extended, making it easier for salt and snow to accumulate between the paws.

In the winter months, the use of foot ointment is also highly recommended. Arava Paws Bio Protector protects the pads from cracking and drying out and keeps them soft and healthy. It contains several natural oils such as: argan oil, which prevents skin dehydration, avocado oil, which heals wounds, nourishes and protects the skin and hair, seaberry oil, which helps in tissue regeneration. Apply the ointment in thin layer on clean pads before each walk. When returning home wipe your dog’s paws with handkerchiefs and apply the ointment again to prevent cracking and drying out of the paws.

Inspect your dog’s paws regularly. Gently inspect the paws and remember the areas between the toes. Pay attention to injuries (burns, cracks, blisters…), swelling and discoloration of the paws.