Most dog owners wonder why do dog’s paw pads turn colors and the answers can be quite varied. Let’s first take a closer look at this important part of the dog’s body. Dog paw pads are essential for good health, they act as a “sole” for the dog, and help him walk on the steepest terrain. It is important to properly maintain the pads of a dog, and for good reason as they are essential for him to move. It is therefore vital to take care of a cut or injured pad, and to always check the good condition of your dog’s paws and pads.
Role of dog paw pads
The dog’s foot pads protect the end of the animal’s legs. They have a shock absorbing and insulating effect, which allows the dog to walk on hard, hot or cold surfaces. The thickness of the pads depends directly on the activity of the dog. There are tanning lotions, which can harden the pad and make walking easier for the animal. The pads are a fairly sensitive part of the dog’s anatomy. It is advisable to monitor their condition on a regular basis.
How to limit the risk of injury to paw pads
Certain preventive measures will allow you to reduce the risk of injury. In the summer, avoid walking with your dog on hot surfaces, such as bitumen exposed to heavy sun in warm temperatures. In the winter, long walks on icy surfaces are prohibited. If your dog’s paw pads are particularly sensitive, consider buying dog shoes.
Always watch the ground during your walks, and avoid broken glass or sharp surfaces. The pads will harden over time, with walking and exercise. Avoid taking your dog for a very long walk if he is not used to it. It’s better to gradually accustom him to take longer walks by gradually increasing its length.
Caring for a dog’s paw pad
To ensure your dog has healthy pads, it is important to pay special attention to their maintenance:
- Regularly check that the dog’s pads are in good condition.
- Remember to apply a tanning lotion regularly, to strengthen the pad.
- During summer months, remember to moisturize the pads from time to time, to void drying out.
- During winter time, clean and rinse the pads after each ride to remove dirt, sand, salt and other particles that may indeed damage the pads of the dog.
- Clean its legs as soon as they are dirty.
- If your dog has long hair, remember to regularly cut the hair that protrudes between its pads. They may hinder his approach.
- If your dog has cracked pads, apply a moisturizing or healing cream.
Most of the time, the reason why do dog’s paw pads turn colors is caused by irritation, cuts or injury. You can prevent this with appropriate preventive care.
How to treat an injured pad?
Injuries to paw pads are quite common in dogs and it is therefore important to learn how to deal with cut or injured paw pads. If you notice bleeding from the paw pads, it is important to react quickly as follows:
- Assess the severity of the injury, and take him to the veterinarian, if necessary.
- Clean the wound with water, and check if a foreign body is not trapped in the wound (pebble, piece of glass, etc.).
- Apply pressurized hydrogen peroxide to clean out particles and stop the bleeding.
- If the wound is clean and clear, you can apply a bandage the wound. Do not use cotton wool, as it may stick to the inside of the wound. If the wound is large, then take your pet to the veterinarian. Any pad dressing, whether applied by yourself or by the veterinarian, should be changed once a day.
Should you consult a veterinarian for an injured pad?
A visit to the veterinarian is not essential for minor injuries to the pad. On the other hand, it is better to entrust the pads of a dog to a veterinarian in the following cases:
- If the bleeding is heavy.
- If the pads suffer from recurring crevices or injuries.
- If the dog has difficulty walking.
- If the pads change appearance or have a bad odor.
- If a foreign object is trapped in the wound.
If there is any doubt about the dog’s health or how to intervene, there is no point in taking risks. Just bandage the dog quickly, and take him to the vet immediately.