After a nice walk outdoor, your dog will come home happy. However, before letting him run on floors and carpets, it is important to remember to clean his paws. Not just for the mud, which is very likely to be found during the winter months. In every season, streets, parks and paths hide dirt, bacteria and irritants that can stick to the fur or skin of the dog, putting his health and the hygiene of your home at risk.
But how to clean it correctly?
Why Cleaning Your Dog’s Paws Is Important
Dogs’ paws are in direct contact with the ground throughout their walk, exposing them to various factors such as mud, wet grass, snow, salt, pollen and residues of chemicals used to treat roads. All of these elements can cause skin irritation, infection or, worse, dry and damaged pads of the animal’s feet. In addition, dogs that are not cleaned properly can bring dirt into the house, contaminating floors and furniture, and creating a less hygienic environment for you and your family.
How to Clean Your Dog’s Paws After a Walk
Cleaning your dog’s paws is not complicated, but it is an operation that must be carried out with care to ensure that the animal remains in good health.
Use specific hygienic wipes and ad hoc sprays
Pet wipes are an essential tool for quickly and effectively cleaning paws after a walk. They are easy to use, gentle on skin and fur, and remove dirt and bacteria without the need for water. It is important to choose wipes specifically formulated for animals, such as those available on the pet care market, which are safe and free of harsh chemicals. Another valuable ally is Paw Clean, a spray solution based on hydrogen peroxide for sanitizing and cleaning the paws of dogs and cats, with the addition of glycerin, chamomile and calendula, capable of hydrating and soothing the skin even in the case of burns and itching.
Check the foot pads
After cleaning your dog’s paws, take a moment to check his footpads. Often, small stones, thorns, or other debris can get stuck between the toes or in the skin. Removing them right away prevents discomfort or injury that could worsen. Make sure the pads are soft and free of cracks, which can be caused by harsh weather conditions like extreme cold or heat.
Wash paws when necessary
If your dog has been walking in particularly dirty environments or has put his paws in muddy or salty water, it is best to do a thorough wash with warm water and a delicate detergent. In these cases, you can use a soft towel to dry his paws carefully, avoiding them remaining damp, to avoid irritation or fungal infections.
Protect paws with moisturizing products
After cleaning the paws, apply a specific moisturizing balm to protect the pads, especially during the cold months or in summer, when the heat can dry the skin. There are specific products to soften and protect the paws from external agents, keeping the skin elastic and hydrated.
The benefits of regular cleaning
Cleaning your dog’s paws after each walk not only keeps your home cleaner, but it’s also a way to prevent infections and skin irritations. It’s also an opportunity to regularly check the condition of your four-legged friend’s paws and identify any problems such as lesions, swelling or signs of infection early.
