Estcourt Vets Devizes
How to Protect Your Dog’s Paws During Winter Walks in Wiltshire
Winter in Wiltshire can be a beautiful time to explore the outdoors with your dog, but the cold weather and icy conditions can be hard on their paws. At Estcourt Vets, we want to help you make sure your dog stays safe and comfortable during those chilly winter walks. Here are some simple ways to protect their paws this winter season.
How cold is too cold though for winter walks in Wiltshire? Check out our downloadable guide:
Why winter walks are important
Winter walks are a great way to keep your dog active and engaged, especially during the quieter months of January and February. However, with the colder temperatures and harsher conditions, it’s important to keep an eye on their health to avoid issues like cracked paws, salt irritation, or frostbite. A little extra care and attention will go a long way in ensuring your dog’s paws stay happy and healthy.
Estcourt Vets’ top paw protection tips
1. Moisturise those paws
During winter, your dog’s paws can dry out, becoming cracked or sore. Regularly applying a dog-safe paw balm can help keep their paws soft and moisturised, available from most trusted pet stores or online retailers. Applying the balm just before your dog is about to rest or sleep can make all the difference. Estcourt Vets’ team advise you to avoid applying paw balm just before exercise or playtime.
2. Choose the right footwear
If you’re taking your dog on longer winter walks or walks in Wiltshire, or further afield where snow or ice is common, you might want to consider dog boots. These can help protect their paws from the harsh conditions, including sharp ice and harmful salt. Our team at Estcourt Vets can help guide you on the best options for your dog’s needs. Check out our guide on ‘How cold is too cold for winter dog walks?’
3. Wipe paws after walks
After every walk, take a moment to wipe your dog’s paws clean of any salt, ice, or other debris that may have stuck to them. These elements can cause irritation or even chemical burns. This simple step can help ensure your dog’s paws stay clean and irritation-free. If you’re walking in muddy or water-logged areas, washing your dog’s paws afterwards is strongly advised to give them the best protection against a rare but potentially fatal disease called Alabama Rot.
4. Keep walks shorter in extreme cold
In very cold weather, it’s important to keep walks shorter. While your dog may enjoy running and playing in the snow, prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures can lead to frostbite or other issues. Pay attention to your dog’s behaviour – if they start limping or acting uncomfortable, it’s time to head inside – check out our guide on assessing the cold.
5. Watch for signs of discomfort
It’s essential to watch for signs of paw discomfort, especially during winter. If your dog is limping, licking their paws excessively, or seems reluctant to walk, it might be a sign of irritation or injury. In such cases, contact us at Estcourt Vets for advice and treatment. Our vets and nurses can offer helpful advice on how to manage winter paw health. Early intervention can help prevent further issues.
Keeping your dog happy in winter
Winter walks can be a joy for both you and your dog, as long as you take a few extra precautions to protect their paws. If you’re concerned about your dog’s paw health this winter, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team at Estcourt Vets. We’re here to help make sure your dog stays healthy and happy no matter the season.
Before you go, remember to download and share our guide on ‘How cold is too cold for winter dog walks?’
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