Protection of bones and joints is provided by paw pads.They give insulation.Since dogs are constantly on their feet and often with little or no protection, paws are vulnerable to injuries.Dogs with torn paw pads don't rest.They act like dogs, running and playing and reopening their wounds over and over.The pressure from walking can cause paw pads to tear.It is important to care for your dog's torn paw pad in a timely manner because it is prone to infections.
Step 1: There are signs of limping, licking, or bleeding.
Chances are your dog has a paw pad injury if he suddenly is unwilling to put any weight on a foot or is licking it.
Step 2: When you see signs of pain, look at the paw.
Between the toes, on top of the foot, and between the pads are where you can see the paw.Check for bleeding, cuts or abrasions, debris stuck in the pad, or a dangling dew claw.A ripped nail can cause a lot of bleeding.If your dog is in pain, approach him cautiously.Talk in a calm voice.
Step 3: Decide if a vet visit is necessary.
If the wound is less than a half inch in diameter, you can take care of it at home.If the cut is deep, consult a vet.If there is excessive bleeding or oozing, you should see a vet.Antibiotics may be given to your dog by a vet to help fight an illness.
Step 4: When you notice a potential problem, act quickly.
The injuries must be treated immediately if they are to be contaminated.
Step 5: Clean the wound.
If you fill a bucket with warm water, you can submerge the paw.Submerging the paw helps wash out any debris that may be in the area.Tweezers can be used to remove debris.
Step 6: It's time to stop the bleeding.
If your dog's paw continues to bleed after you have washed the wound and removed debris, use a clean bandage or cloth to apply light pressure to the area until the bleeding stops.You should seek veterinary care if you can't control the bleeding.Lying the dog down will help slow the bleeding.
Step 7: It's a good idea toDilute your Disinfectant.
To kill any germs near the wound, you will need to apply an antiseptic like povidone-iodine.The antiseptic can burn your dog's paw.Diluting to a solution of 10 parts warm water is suggested.It will look like weak tea.
Step 8: It's a good idea to apply the disinfectant.
Once the wound has been cleaned and the blood and debris have been removed, it is a good idea to put a cotton ball in the area and let it air dry.
Step 9: It's a good idea to cover the wound with an antibiotic.
You can use a salve for both humans and dogs.If your dog licks the antibiotic, it is safe.
Step 10: An absorbent pad should be placed on the wound.
The first layer on the wound should be non-irritating.It should be large enough to cover the whole injury.There are some good brands for non-adhering dressing pads.You can find them at a lot of stores.
Step 11: Wrap the injured paw.
Wrap the absorbent pad and foot pad with a self-adhering bandage designed for animals.Wrap the paw around the wrist joint.The paw's claws should be touching.You have tied the bandage too tight if the claws are separated or the foot is cold.Try again.It will protect the injury from being spread and it will also provide additional protection for the foot pad.You don't want to cut off your dog's circulation if the pressure is appropriate.You can place two fingers under the bandaging if the wrapping is snug enough that it stays on their foot.The blood supply to the paw can be cut off if the bandage is tight.If you're worried about tying the bandage too tightly, call your vet.
Step 12: The bandage needs to be changed daily.
If there is additional bleeding or seepage, you will need to replace the wound dressing more often.Since dogs sweat from their paws, you need to keep a close eye on the bandage to make sure it stays dry and clean.
Step 13: Do not allow your dog to lick or chew at the bandages.
The time it takes for a wound to heal can be shortened by dogs licking or removing bandages.It could lead to infections.You can use a taste deterrent, such as bitter apple spray, on the outside of the bandages to discourage your dog from licking or chewing on it.You may have to use an E-collar for a few days if the taste deterrent doesn't work.
Step 14: A dog boot is good for going outside.
Even though your dog is injured, he will still need to go for a walk or potty break.To keep the recovery on track and protect your dog's paw, use a dog boot to cover the wound and bandages when outside.
Step 15: Take a few days to assess the situation.
Take your dog to the vet if the wound continues to bleed or open up after three days of treatment.
Step 16: Immediately treat the infection.
If a paw is not treated quickly, it can cause long-term problems.During the healing process, look for swelling or redness in the paw pad.A foul odor or moist discharge when changing your dog's bandages could be a sign of an illness.If your dog suddenly seems to be in more pain or refuses to walk, this is a sign of possible infections.If there are any of these, you need to talk to your vet.
Step 17: After being outside, inspect your dog's paws.
If there is debris in the dog's paw, it can cause problems or tears.pebbles, seeds, and other debris can irritate and cut your dog's toes.You can use tweezers to remove these.If you have a bucket of water nearby, you can rinse the dog's paws when he comes inside.Taking care of your dog's paws is a good idea.It will be easier to treat if you catch an issue early.
Step 18: Take care of your yard.
There are things you can do to help keep your pet healthy.Check your yard for broken glass, small pebbles, or metal to make sure they don't get stuck in your dog's paws.It's much easier to prevent injuries than it is to treat them.
Step 19: Pay attention to the weather.
Extreme weather can affect your dog's paws.Hot pavement can burn your dog's pads, and snow, ice and salt can be equally damaging.If it's extremely hot outside, try to take your dog out before dawn or after sundown to avoid heat-related blisters.Dog boots or foot wax can help protect his paws.
Step 20: Your dog's pads need to be moist.
You can help keep your dog's pads strong by making sure they are hydrated and not cracked.Human products are not good for dogs and should be avoided.Your vet can give you a recommendation.You can massage them with vitamins E and K.
Step 21: It's a good idea to prevent injuries.
Like human athletes, dogs need time to get used to a new routine.If you take up hiking or running, make sure your dog and paws are acclimatized to the activity.