Things You'll Need
- Beeswax
- Olive, avocado or bergamot essential oil
- Borax
- Airtight container
- Medicated wipes or Epsom salt and purified water
Instructions
Melt the beeswax according to the product's directions.
Add the oil to the melted wax gradually, mixing constantly until the substance appears whipped. Use bergamot essential oil to add anti-fungal properties to the balm.
Add a pinch of borax. Borax is used in products that contact high amounts of beeswax to emulsify the beeswax, stabilize it and support the balm's texture without the use of chemicals. It's fine for your dog to lick this since it's used in such a small amount. Borax is also frequently used in lip balm.
Clean your dog's paw pads with a medicated wipe for pets, or soak the paws in Epsom salt and purified water for five to 10 minutes. Use 1 to 2 tablespoons per gallon of water.
Trim the hair between your dog's paw pads to avoid getting the balm in it. This is most easily done if you can lay the dog on its back. For small or medium-size dogs, sit on the floor and brace the dog between your legs. Gently brace large dogs against a piece of furniture or a wall.
Apply a small amount of balm to your dog's paw pads. Massage well into the pads. Reapply as needed.
Store the balm in an airtight container and keep in a cool place.