Dogs love running, walking, and fetching but hate wearing boots. Caring for the pet's paws falls on the pet owner. In addition to insulating the paws, pads aid with balance and offer traction to slow down and stop. Pads serve as shock absorbers for the joints and bones of the feet. Paws are naturally durable to withstand wear and tear due to running and other activities, but paw pad issues are not uncommon. You can find acceptable solutions by searching results by Paws & Snout.
You can use dog paw balm to protect pads. Still, it is good to know the symptoms and causes of different paw issues and injuries.
Symptoms
- Limping or lameness
- Chewing and licking the affected paw(s)
- Hair loss
- Lesions and discharge
- Red and inflamed paws
- Ulcers with blisters and scabbing
- Abrasions, cuts, and tears
- Dry/cracked pads
- Cracked and torn nails
- Loose flaps of skin
- Refusal to bear weight
- Cysts and growths
- Foul smell
- Bleeding
Causes
Allergies
Allergies in dogs cause itchiness in the paws. Dogs often chew, lick, or bite on their paws to relieve the itching. You can also notice anal gland issues and ear and skin infections. Excessive licking increases the risk of secondary fungal and bacterial infections. Let a veterinarian evaluate your pet’s paw.
Fungal pet bacterial Infections
Fungi and bacteria typically live there on paws. It is the out-of-control growth that causes infection. Both infections are prevalent and usually affect the paws. Pain, itching, drainage, swelling, redness, chewing, and licking are signs of fungal and bacterial infections. Most of the time, infections occur between the skin folds. You can also notice nail discoloration. Yeast and ringworm are common causes of fungal infections.
Nail Issues
- Common nail issues include long toenails, ingrown nails, and torn nails.
- There are negative consequences of long nails. It is not easy to walk with long nails.
- Nails trimmed improperly become painful ingrown toenails.
- Torn nails often bleed and are very painful.
Dry and Cracked Pads
Rough paw pads are susceptible to hot pavement, chemicals, wintery conditions, dry air, excessive licking, and exposure to rough surfaces. All these can cause cracked paws. Dry, cracked paws are painful and increase the risk of infection.
Burns and Blisters
Don't take your doDon'tside for a walk when it’s too hot. Toucit'se pavement with your hand. If you cannot hold your palm on the pavement, keep your pet away from the pavement. Otherwise, the hot pavement will burn your pet’s pads. Pads were red, swollen, or blistered. You can use dog paw balm to prevent and cure burns and blisters.
Cuts and Abrasions
Play, walk, and run on different terrains. Sharp objects on the ground can cause cuts and abrasions. So, always watch the surface when you and your dog go for a walk. Broken glass, burrs, sticks, and small rocks can cause these problems.
Parasites
Ticks hiding between the toes can cause infection, pain, and many other problems. It is essential to get to the vet.
Cysts And Growth
These problems occur in between the toes or on the paws. If you spot any of these problems, contact a veterinarian for treatment.
