Hot pavement and rough ground can burn and crack the paws and later get infected but with paw balm, dogs are not at risk. Lanolin, beeswax, and shea butter balm are protective, healing, and preventive. Finding and applying the best paw balm is not complicated instead this is an easy way to maintain the health of the paws at all times of the year.
Have you ever experienced that hot pavement in your sandals during the summertime? Just think of your dog barefoot on that burning sidewalk. The warmer it gets, the more danger there will be to your pup on his sensitive footpads. Dogs are not as tough as they appear; they also have their sore spots which come in the form of their paws, especially when it is time to take them out to do a summer stroll.
This is why the paw balm for dogs is not a summer remedy, but a must. It will only take you a couple of steps to ensure your furry friend will not experience painful burns, cracks, and long-term damage. So what can we do to ensure those paws remain soft, safe and ready to go?
Why Hot Sidewalks Are a Real Threat to Dog Paws
The majority of pet parents are not aware of how hot sidewalks can be. On an 85°F (29°C) day, pavement can heat up to over 130°F (54°C). Even at that temperature, damage can be inflicted on the skin in under a minute. Most dogs step on the ground with bare feet and their paw pads do not support such heat, even though theirs is thicker than ours.
Long term contact with asphalt and concete may cause;
- Blisters and burns.
- Torn and worn pads.
- Infections may occur due to open wounds.
- Refusal to walk or limp.
We, as dog lovers, would not dare to unintentionally hurt our pups. Yet a walk, even a small walk to the nearby garden, one without any protection may create the long-term impression.
So What Happens When You Don't Use The Paw Balm?
This is what can happen to your dog when its paws are not covered:
|
Issues |
How it looks like |
Affects to your dog |
|
Burnt feet |
Blisters, redness, limping |
Hurts to walk |
|
Cracking & dryness |
Bleeding cracks, flaky or split skin |
May cause exposure to dirt and disease |
|
Infections |
Swollen pads, constant chewing & licking |
May require bandages or antibiotics |
|
Reduce activity |
Hesitate to walk, fear outdoors |
Makes him/her lazy & inactive, weight gain. |
Benefits of Using Paw Balm for Dogs
Paw balm is not only the protective layer but it heals, cools down the paws and moisturises them.
Here are some capabilities of paw balm:.
- Serves as a dog foot pad moisturizer that prevents dryness and cracking.
- Provides treatment against the minor scraps and burns.
- Seal the microcracks and prevents infection
- Provides relief to the uncomfortable nerves with calming natural ingredients.
What to Look for in a Good Paw Balm
Not every paw balm is same, to provide safe and efficient usage, pet parents should seek:
- A good paw balm must contain all natural ingredients such as beeswax, shea butter, coconut oil, and lanolin.
- Non - Toxic formulas because dogs are irresistible when it comes to paw licking.
- No synthetics, alcohol and parabens
- Non sticky, breathable and light absorption.
It's more like a natural dog paw balm and your pet deserves the same care that you’d give to your skin. The best foot protection for dogs starts with gentle and effective ingredients.
How to Use Paw Balm for Dogs Safely and Effectively
Applying pawbalm is absolutely essential and it's not even a rocket science to understand, adding a little bit of consistency can be a part of your dog’s daily care routine.
Step-by-step guide:
- Wash the paws of your dog delicately by using a wet piece of cloth or a paw wipe.
- Use a little of the balm on your fingers.
- Rub it on each pad and between the toes too.
- Then, wait 1-2 minutes to absorb it and then let them walk.
Applying paw balm for dogs regularly will aid to strengthen protection and healing in a non-disturbing way to the comfort of your dog.
What Can You Use as a Safe Paw Balm?
There are a lot of different solutions in the market, however it is better to select something that is safe, easy, and efficient. An example of this is the Four Paws Healthy Promise Paw Guard Dog Paw Balm that is formulated with lanolin to hydrate and protect the paws of your dog.
It is perfect paw protection for dogs who traverse hot sidewalks, gravel, or even snowpaths and it is a nutritious barricade that will not allergy sensitive skin.
Whether you are in need of one of these safer choices, do not know where to find them, or have even been wondering how you will find such a safe alternative, then you can frequently find a selection of vet-recommended products in the stock of reputable online pet stores like Kwik Pets. It is always good to read ingredient listings, and must be specifically produced as a dog product.
Four Paws Healthy Promise Paw Guard Dog Paw Balm with Lanolin 1.75-oz
Real life moment, when paw balm saved the day!
While I was researching about the topic, I talked with a few fellow dog parents, and their stories truly put my attention to how paw care is really important.
I was told of one hike by customer, barbara and her Golden Retriever, Bella:
‘It was about a year ago, July or August and we went on a hike pretty early in the morning. By midday, though, the trail had gotten a lot hotter. Bella began to limp half way through, she didn’t want to walk on gravel for much longer. Luckily, there was paw balm in my backpack. We stopped, cleaned her paws and put balm on and let her rest in the shade. She snapped right out of it & got back to her happy go lucky Self very quickly. I don’t go on any outdoor journeys without it now”.
There is one more previous experience of the dog parent in Arizona similar to that one of her pup, Max:
“Even the early morning walk here is dangerous. After each walk, Max would come back licking his paws and I understood that it was still too hot on the sidewalk. I began using balm when going out and since then, there has been no irritation of the paws whatsoever. It has become our way of life.”
When you hear such stories, it really reminds you how effective products such as a dog paw balm can help get your dog in the time when he or she needs it the most. It is not only a dog grooming product, but an on-the-go necessity as a pet parent.
Conclusion: Paw Care Matters—Every Weather, Every Walk
The paws are important to your dog because they run, they play, they explore, and they bond with you. It is not enough to cut nails or brush fur to keep them healthy. It involves taking care of their paws daily against the elements.
A reliable paw balm for dogs not only prevents burns and dryness in paws, but also increases the level of comfort and life of your pet on a daily basis. It is just like wearing armor every day, it is lightweight, soft, and filled with love.
