First Aid For Your Dog's Paws - Careful of Sharp Objects on Walks

Spring is a wonderful time of year for long walks with your dog. With the warmer temperatures, and the wonderful smells of spring, you and your pup will both enjoy the benefits.  As grass and foliage begins to regrow, what has been left behind from winter, hidden by snow and fallen leaves, are many hazards that can be of danger to your dog's paws.

When walking, be aware of what the long winter has left behind and be prepared if they cause an injury to your pup. Sharp objects like broken glass, thorns, nails, etc, can easily injure your dog's feet. An embedded object may be the cause of:

• Bleeding from the paw 
• Limping
• Avoidance of weight on one paw
• Excessive licking of the paw

Though painful for your pup, this type of injury can easily be treated at home.

1. Check the paw, around and in between the pads, for the object that may be causing pain
2. Sterilize tweezers with alcohol
3. Hold your dog's paw and tightly pinch the object with the tweezers
4. Gently pull out object, being careful to remove the entire piece
5. Once successfully removed, soak paw in a solution of warm water and Epsom salts for 15 minutes

If you were unsuccessful in removing entire object, or wound is deep or shows signs of infection, check with your veterinarian for further treatment.

Always be sure you have a well stocked pet first aid kit and reference manual available. The American Red Cross "Dog First Aid" is an excellent book to have readily available as a reference for treatment of simple injuries.