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Here in Kansas, where I live, the temperature has dropped significantly in the last week. That makes me worry… especially about my pug. In zero degrees, can her feet freeze? Do I need to put something on her feet to protect them? What if she won’t wear boots?
I did some research into all of these questions: Here’s what I found out:
Here’s a good rule to remember: If it’s too cold for you to be outside, it’s most likely too cold for your pet. We should keep our pugs (dogs) indoors as much as possible during the real cold months of winter. And, just like in summer, don’t leave your dog alone in a cold car.
Beware of De-icers
Says Dr. Louise Murray, ASPCA Director of Medicine, “During the winter, products used as de-icers on sidewalks and other areas can lead to trouble for our animal companions, potentially causing problems ranging from sore feet to internal toxicity. Pet parents should take precautions to minimize their furry friends’ exposure to such agents.”
Cold can cause itchy, dry skin
Itchy, Dry skin: In the cold months of winter, dogs that do in and out of the cold can develop dry, itchy skin. Running a humidifier will help keep moisture in the air and be sure to keep a towel handy to dry your dog’s feet when he/she comes inside.
Dog Boots an option: If your dog will wear boots, they are great option. They will keep your pug’s paws away from salt crystals, poison antifreeze and chemical ice-melting agents. They also keep paws protected from sand and salt that can get lodged in between a dog’s toes. My pug thinks I’m killing her when I try to put boots on her feet so I have to look for different options.
Check your dog’s paws often
Check Paw’s Regulary: Be sure and look at your dog’s paws often, especially in the winter time. Make sure there are no cracks or cuts in the pads. Also, while looking, press on your dog’s pad to see if it might be sore or if there is discomfort. Check between the toes to make sure there aren’t any lumps, stickers, cuts, etc…
If your dog won’t wear dog boots, try rubbing a paw wax on his/her pads for protection. It is super easy to apply and it adds a layer of protection for your dog in the winter. It’s still a good idea to moisturize your pug’s feet with a paw balm or petroleum jelly- Musher’s secret paw wax helps prevents clods and harmful chemicals of ice getting into the pads. Musher’s is a wonderful product for protecting your dog’s pads. I have used it for about two years and have nothing but good to say about it.
If you need to treat your sidewalks so they won’t be slippery, consider “Safe Paw Ice Melt” instead of regular rock salt. The product will not irritate your pet’s paws and it’s safe for children, vegetation, concrete brick and stone.
Other options for moisturizing a dog’s paw pads:
Coconut oil can be used to moisturize your dog’s paw pads. It also tends to act like a protective balm to protect your dog’s feet from any substance that might irritate them. Shea Butter can also be used. It is made from nuts that grow on the African Shea Tree. It’s a natural product that is well-known for its moisturizing properties.
https://pets.webmd.com/top-winter-skin-paw-care-tips
Here’s another article about this:
What do you use on your dog’s feet to protect him/her from the cold weather?
Until next time,
Hugs and Pug Kisses,
Candy
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