Summer Paw Care For Fido

With summer coming, you’ll need to pay some extra attention to your canine buddy’s paws. Fido is susceptible to cuts, scrapes, burns, and blisters. Ouch! In this article from Arapahoe Animal Hospital, your Boulder, CO vet, serving Louisville and surrounding areas a local vet discusses summer dog paw care.

Pawdicures

Keeping Fido’s nails clipped may be more important than you think. Overgrown nails make it hard for him to get traction, and can interfere with his stance and stride. This can put additional strain on his bones and joints, and can also increase the risk of slips and falls. Keep up with those pawdicures!

Surfaces

Hot and harsh surfaces are always a concern in summer. On really hot days, keep Fido on cool surfaces. This is definitely something to keep in mind if you travel to warmer spots!

Swimming

Does your four-legged friend like swimming? Fido’s feet will be extra delicate when they’re wet. That makes it even easier for him to get cuts or blisters. Just running around on a cement pool deck after swimming can quickly cause blisters. Use paw balm or wax to protect those toe beans. 

Pollen

Does your furry buddy have allergies? If Fido is sensitive to things like pollen, mold, grass, or leaves, wipe his feet down before you bring him in. Keep a spray bottle of water and a few rags by the door. (Note: look for a covered urn or jar to conceal this.) You may even be able to teach your cute pet to wipe his own feet!

Paw For Thought

It’s also a good idea to check your canine friend’s feet regularly, especially if you notice him licking or nibbling them. Ticks sometimes latch on to those furry toes. There’s also a chance of foxtail awns, which are sharp seed heads that can work their way beneath your pup’s skin.

Tricks

Summer is perfect for spending time outside with your four-legged buddy. Teach Fido some cute tricks, like Shake Paw or Gimme Five! There’s a hidden bonus here: if your furry best friend thinks he’ll get a yummy treat for giving you his feet, he’ll be much more amenable to nail trims and other paw care. 

Please reach out to us here at Arapahoe Animal Hospital, your Boulder, CO vet, serving Louisville and surrounding areas, for your pet’s veterinary care needs. We’re here to help!