We love our dogs so much. They make us happy with their very presence and we would do everything to make them feel loved and safe. That is why it is difficult for us to see them having some kind of health problem or something hurting them. Cracked paws are one of those problems.
Have you noticed that your dog licks his paws more than usual? If so, it can be a sign of cracked paws. Dogs can help themselves by licking their paws only to a certain extent. However, if you notice that their paws hurt or that the pads of their paws bleed, it’s time to take action. Here are some different ways you can deal with your dog’s cracked paws.
Clean their paws and apply vaseline
If you notice that your dog licks his paws frequently and it lasts for a few minutes, we suggest you check what the reason is. It is possible that there are cracks on their paws that hurt or itch them and that is why they lick them more often. In case the cracks are shallow and you think that there is no need to call a professional, you can try to help your pet yourself.
To begin, soak a towel in warm water and gently wipe paw pads. Use antibacterial soap to clean them thoroughly, then rinse with warm water and pat dry with a towel. The paws should now be completely clean and dry. After that, apply a small amount of vaseline on each paw and gently rub it into the paw pads. Wait for the paws to fully absorb the vaseline before moving away from your dog. Otherwise, the dog will probably start licking vaseline, which can lead to stomach problems and other health problems you want to avoid. Try to make this process as enjoyable as possible for your dog. Be very gentle and careful, and if you notice that something is wrong, immediately call a veterinarian to examine your pet.
Put socks on the paws
A great way to protect your dog’s paws from further cracking is to put the socks on him. This will also speed up the healing process. You can find socks that are specially designed for dogs, but if you don’t have them, it’s not the end of the world. You can put baby socks on him or ask a tailor to make you something that will work. At first, this will probably be uncomfortable for your dog (although it will probably be very funny to you), but keep in mind that you are doing it for his greatest good. Don’t let him take off his socks and put them back on his paws every time that happens. After a while, he will get used to socks and everything will be fine. If that still doesn’t happen and you see that it just won’t happen, try sticking a bandaid on the paw pads instead of socks. This is a slightly more impractical option, but it works for some dogs, and that is the only thing that matters.
Use creams and lotions that are intended for cracked paws
On the market today, you can find a mountain of products that are intended for cracked paws and choose the one you like. There are creams, lotions, oils, balms, and other products that can alleviate your dog’s ailments. Some of them have anti-inflammatory, antibiotic, or antibacterial effects, some relieve pain, and there are products that have the role of moisturizing the paws and preventing their further cracking. If you want to take a closer look at products that can help with cracked paws PetStruggles can give you more information.
Do not take the dog for long walks
If you notice that your dog’s paws hurt and even walking is torturing him, it’s a good idea to limit the duration of the walk, at least for a while. If your dog is big and needs a daily walk, let it last only a few minutes, until you see that his paws are in better condition. If the dog is small, then you can take a break for a few days and not take him for a walk until his paws recover. Pay special attention to the surface he walks on and avoid walks on rocky ground and hot surfaces because it can contribute to additional paw pads cracking.
Call a vet in case of emergency
Lastly, if you find the situation alarming, the best thing you can do is consult a professional. In case the paw pad is cut off and his paws bleed, it is necessary to contact a veterinarian immediately and ask him for advice. Pay attention to whether your pasture is afraid of the vet. Because if that is the case, going to the vet alone can cause him even more stress, which you definitely want to avoid. To get started, contact your veterinarian by phone and explain what it is. Maybe the situation can be easily resolved at home, so the vet will not have to come and traumatize your pet. However, if you notice that injuries to his paws cause him a lot of pain and that he is in pain and bleeding, we suggest that you take the dog to the nearest veterinarian who will find an urgent solution.
Always do what is in your dog’s best interest and help him as soon as possible. Another thing – try to be calm. Your dog can feel when you are nervous, and that will only cause him additional anxiety. Keep the situation under control and keep in mind that you are in good hands. It is only a matter of time before your dog will be able to run carefree again and enjoy his daily dog activities.
Conclusion
If you notice that your dog is persistently licking his paws and that it lasts for several minutes, pay attention to the condition in which the paws are. It is possible that the paw pads have cracked and this is causing itching or pain. If the situation is not alarming, you will probably be able to solve the problem with home care yourself. With a few simple tips, your dog’s paws will recover quickly and everything will be fine. In case you notice that the paws are bleeding and that the dog is desperate, we suggest that you contact a veterinarian who will solve the problem the fastest, and your pet will soon be able to run again and enjoy his dog’s life.
