As temperatures plummet across the UK, a leading veterinary expert has issued an urgent health warning for dog owners, highlighting one particular symptom that requires immediate action if spotted in your pet.
Sean McCormack, Head Vet at tailored nutrition company Tails.com, emphasises that excessive paw licking after winter walks should trigger immediate concern and intervention from pet owners.
Winter's Hidden Dangers for Canine Paws
The winter season introduces multiple hazards that can severely damage dogs' sensitive paw pads. Common threats include grit spread on icy paths, de-icing salts, sharp ice fragments, and compacted snow.
Sean explains: "While dogs' paws are naturally resilient, they're not immune to damage. The combination of cold, wet conditions and chemically treated surfaces can create real problems, particularly for dogs walking daily on heavily gritted urban routes."
These substances, though essential for human safety on slippery pavements, can cause significant discomfort to animals, leading to dryness, cracking, and in severe cases, chemical burns.
Recognising Trouble and Taking Action
Vigilance is paramount during the colder months, with prevention being far preferable to treatment. Owners should regularly inspect their dogs' paws for any signs of redness, cracking, or irritation.
"If you notice your dog excessively licking their paws after a walk, or observe any redness or cracking, it's time to take immediate action," Sean advises.
His recommended first aid protocol includes: cleaning the affected area with warm water, gently patting it dry, and applying a dog-safe soothing balm. Should symptoms persist or worsen, consulting a veterinarian is essential as this could indicate an infection or allergic reaction.
Additional maintenance tips include keeping nails trimmed and managing fur around the paws, as overgrown hair between toes can trap ice balls and moisture, causing further discomfort.
Preventative Measures for Winter Walks
Protecting your dog's paws begins before you even leave home. Sean recommends planning walking routes carefully to avoid heavily gritted areas where possible.
Applying a thin layer of dog-specific paw balm or wax before walks creates a protective barrier against harsh chemicals and salt. These products function similarly to human moisturisers but are specially formulated for canine safety.
Never use human beauty products on your dog, as they frequently contain ingredients toxic to pets.
Post-walk care is equally crucial, especially after traversing salted or icy terrain. Rinsing paws with water and drying them thoroughly helps remove any residual salt, grit, or chemicals that could cause irritation or be ingested through later licking.
Always check between toes for trapped debris, which can lodge between paw pads or become caught in foot fur.
While some owners consider dog boots as protective footwear, Sean expresses reservations: "Most dogs find them uncomfortable, and they can alter a dog's natural gait, potentially leading to chafing, rubbing injuries, or muscular discomfort as the animal compensates for this unfamiliar way of walking."
