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Blogs / Fetch / Winter 2009 / Thaw the Paws

Thaw the Paws

image by Sara Sheehy

There are few things that excite my Portuguese water dogs more than fresh snow. So when a few inches fell this past weekend, we decided to head out Greenhorn Gulch for our first wintry frolic. After meeting up with a friend and her Belgian Tervuren, our motley crew began to hike up the hillside. A bright 20 degree day—we were warmed by the sunshine and the activity. The dogs could not have been happier as they ran, wrestled and tumbled through the snow. By the end of our walk, my pups were covered with little snowballs, swishing in their tails as they trotted back to the car.

Certain dog breeds, in just the right snow conditions, are more susceptible to this icy phenomenon. Snow and ice stuck in-between the pads on a dog's paws can cause cuts and uncomfortably cold toes. Because my dogs are prone to becoming snowy little beasts, I have explored a few options to mitigate this problem.

Time for a Trim

Keep the fur between Fido’s toes trimmed to a manageable level. Cut too short, the fur won't offer protection from the snow anymore, but a neatly trimmed foot will attract less ice and snow to collect inside.

 

Lotions and Potions

There are different products on the market that will condition and cover the pads, providing protection against salt, snow and ice (i.e. Mushers Secret). Feeling thrifty? Try using Pam cooking spray. This non-toxic, non-stick spray works well on some dog's hair, making ice and snow slide right off.

 

Mukluks for Mutts

Doggy boots are not just a novelty for pampered pets. Well-made booties can keep a dog's paws warm and dry in rain, ice and snow and protect them from the harmful effects of salt and de-icers. Make sure your dog’s boots are sized right and comfortable for a full day of fun.

 

Photo courtesy of: Sara Sheehy Photography www.sarasheehy.com