Archives for February 21, 2024

Mosley is a diamond in the ruff who’s waiting for his forever person to see him as the jewel that he is! As you can see, he’s a volunteer favorite who’s wonderfully affectionate and small for a pittie—one volunteer calls him an apartment-size dog! He’s smart, eager to please and athletic—he races through the agility tunnel within seconds of being introduced to it! He knows some commands and is ready to learn more. Mosley came in as a stray in June, and he needs to go home. We can’t figure out why this charming 2-year-old hasn’t been adopted or fostered. You can help in that way! Speed the process to adopt or foster Mosely or any of our other pets by emailing PetAdopt@longbeach.gov or petfoster@longbeach.gov. You can also call (562) 570-4925. Our shelter hours are Wednesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 7700 E. Spring St. at the entrance to El Dorado Park (no parking fee for shelter visitors. Ask for ID#A700728.

Dogs use their paws for everything from walking to digging to communicating. But paws can easily become dry, cracked, and irritated. Paw balms provide nourishing protection to keep your pup’s paws healthy in any conditions. This article will help you pick the ideal balm to soothe and repair your dog’s hardworking paws.

Signs Your Dog’s Paws Need More Care

Watch for these clues that it’s time to start using paw balm:

• Dry, flaky, peeling paw pads
• Cracked paw pads that bleed or get infected
• Limping or licking paws due to irritation
• Paw pad hyperkeratosis causing thick calluses
• Constant chewing or gnawing at their paws
• Sensitivity to hot or cold surfaces indoors and out

Dogs most prone to paw problems include outdoor working breeds, dogs in cold climates, senior dogs, and breeds with thin fur on feet. To protect your furry friend’s paws, especially in harsh conditions, consider using the best paw balm for dogs to moisturize and provide a protective barrier against the elements.

Benefits of Using Paw Balms

Regular use of dog paw balms provides many benefits:

• Soothes cracked, painful paws
• Hydrates and softens dry, rough pads
• Creates a protective moisturizing layer
• Prevents ice, snow and salt from damaging paws
• Allows healing of calluses, burns, and wounds
• Reduces infection risk in damaged paw tissue
• Seals out external irritants and allergens
• Calms inflammation and stops incessant licking/chewing

Balms make walks, playtime, and other activities more comfortable for dogs prone to paw problems.

What to Look for in Paw Balm Ingredients?

The most effective and nourishing paw balms contain all natural ingredients like:

• vitamin E – Powerful antioxidant that accelerates healing
• Beeswax or soy wax – Creates protective barrier
• Shea butter – Intense hydration for dry skin
• Coconut oil – Soothes cracked skin with lauric acid
• Olive, hemp, or sunflower oil – Provides essential fatty acids

Avoid pet balms with:

• Artificial fragrances and dyes
• Petroleum jelly with no skin benefits
• Irritating preservatives like parabens
• Beeswax with no certified organic sourcing

Seeking simple balms with minimal ingredients ensures safety if licked off by dogs.

Comparing Texture of Paw Balms

Paw balms come in a range of formulations, offering different benefits:

Thicker butters and waxes:

• Long lasting protection for harsh conditions
• Better for severe dryness and cracking
• Stays on pads better than oily balms
• Somewhat messy upon application

Oils and salves:

• Deeply moisturize and soften pads
• Absorbs quickly without greasy residue
• Won’t stain light carpets as much
• Provides less protection for extreme weather

Look for balms marketed specifically for dog paws, which are safer and more effective than human hand creams.

Application Tips and Frequency

Applying paw balm takes a little patience but becomes a quick routine:

• Start with clean, dry paws for best absorption
• Rub a small amount of balm evenly between pads and around edges
• Massage balm into any cracked areas, encouraging healing
• Use before walks or outdoor play for preventive protection
• Reapply balm 2–3 times per week or more often as needed
• Monitor pads closely and discontinue use if irritation develops

Carry balm on walks to reapply after water play, muddy hikes, or sidewalk ice melt exposure.

Integrating Paw Care into Your Dog’s Routine

Make balm application rewarding with praise and treats. Combine with other care:

• Rub balm soothingly while trimming nails to reduce stress
• Apply after bath time while grooming fur and ears
• Have kids help rub it in during bonding time
• Do a full spa treatment of massage, brushing, balm, dental care
• Pair with joint supplements if arthritis also causes soreness

Developing a consistent nurturing routine makes paw balm application faster.

Choosing Dispenser Styles

Paw balms come in tubes, tins, roll-ons, or push-up chapstick styles. Considerations:

Tubes:

• Dispense controlled amounts for less mess
• Offer flip caps or screw tops
• Recyclable plastic or one-time investment metal tubes

Tins:

• Allow easy scooping with fingers
• Stay clean inside bags, unlike open tubes
• Least expensive per ounce

Roller balls:

• Controlled dispensing avoids waste
• Built in applicator rubs balm in
• Can pick up dirt/debris if rolled on ground

Chapstick types:

• Fun, inexpensive, easy to carry
• Natural to twist up bottom
• Small amount makes reapplication needed

Pick packaging that best suits your preferences, dog’s needs, and planned use locations.

Caring for Your Dog’s Paws Year Round

Paw care should be part of your dog’s health routine all year long:

Summer Care

• Protect pads from hot pavements and ground
• Heal cracked pads prone to infection
• Hydrate dry, rough spots
• Soothe bee stings, burns, and blisters

Fall and Winter Care

• Shield pads from salt, ice melt chemicals
• Prevent burning and bleeding cracks
• Keep paws hydrated in low humidity heat
• Smooth rough calluses caused by ice and snow

Spring Care

• Repair damage from winter weather
• Heal abrasions from playing outside
• Lock in moisture after muddy hikes
• Protect tender paw pads early in season

With the right paw balm as part of your dog’s care regimen, you can keep their paws supple and protected year-round.

When to Call Your Veterinarian About Paw Issues?

Contact your vet if your dog experiences:

• Limping or refusing to walk on a paw, indicating injury
• Bleeding cracks or pads that won’t heal with conservative care
• Swollen, red or inflamed paws suggesting infection
• Excessive licking/chewing of paws unresolved with balm therapy
• Skin irritation or reactions around paws after applying a new product

Your vet can assess for underlying problems like fractures, parasites, or foreign material stuck in pads. Prescription medications may be needed alongside paw balms in some cases.

Picking the Perfect Paw Balm for Your Pup

With so many paw balm products available, it takes a little detective work to pick the ideal formula. Analyze ingredients, understand your dog’s needs, and consult your vet. Aim for simple, vet-recommended balms free of harsh chemicals.

Applied regularly, nourishing balms restore softness, protect sensitive paw pads, and prevent many problems. Make paw care an essential component of showing your dog how much you care.