Although your dog's paw pads are the most durable part of its skin, injuries can and do occur. Signs of injury include bleeding, discoloration of the paw pad, persistent licking of the pad, limping or hesitation about putting weight on its foot. Some minor injuries may be treated at home, but more serious injuries require a veterinarian's care.
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Cuts/Abrasions
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Treatment of lacerations, scrapes, abrasions and punctures depends on the severity of the injury. Minor lacerations and abrasions may simply require cleaning with an antiseptic solutions such as chlorhexidine or povidone iodine and application of a bandage. More severe injuries may require sutures and a splint to lessen the pressure on the wound. Your dog may need an Elizabethan collar, a cone shaped collar resembling a lampshade, to prevent her from licking the paw.
Burns/Blisters
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Blisters may be treated similarly to minor injuries. Severe burns may result in loss of a layer or layers of the paw pad. Cleansing the pad with an antibacterial solution or antiseptic and application of aloe vera gel can help promote healing. The pad should be bandaged to prevent infection. You should clean the pad regularly and apply fresh bandages.
Dry/Cracks
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If your dog's paw pads are dry and cracked, they can collect dirt and debris which makes them more susceptible to damage and infection. There is a product called Paw Wax that moistens, softens and protects the pad. It also prevents irritation and damage from ice, snow, gravel, hot asphalt and surfaces that have been treated with salt. It should not be applied if your dog has wounds. Do not use human moisturizers as they may make paw pads too soft.
Toe Problems
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While they are not part of the paw pad, toe problems can occur that make walking painful or difficult for your dog. Trimming the dog's toenails regularly can prevent them from cracking or breaking. Broken nails should be trimmed evenly and treated with styptic powder if they bleed. Foreign objects may also become wedged between the dog's toes such as stones, burrs, dried mud and glass. If this occurs, you may try to remove the object with tweezers, then clean and bandage it.
Considerations
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Routine examination of your dog's paw pads is important. You should check them regularly for problems. Avoid taking your dog in places where it may encounter debris, broken glass or other hazards. If the dog has been in salt-treated areas, wipe or wash its paws as soon as it comes back inside. Dog boots may offer your dog protection. If you are unable to treat the dog's paw pad wound yourself, if the wound is not healing properly or worsens, you should seek veterinary assistance.
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