🐶 Paws Up for Salt Protection!

Winter walks can be magical, but the salt and chemicals used to melt ice on sidewalks can be tough on your dog’s paws. These substances can cause irritation, dryness, or even cracking, making it uncomfortable for your furry friend to trot alongside you. But don’t worry – with a few simple precautions, you can keep your pup’s paws healthy and happy all season long.

In this newsletter, we’ll share practical tips to protect your dog from the harsh effects of winter salt, recommend paw care products, and guide you on post-walk routines that ensure their paws stay in tip-top shape. Let’s make winter adventures safe and enjoyable for both you and your best friend! 🐶❄️

Sit & Stay Pro Tip — Winter Paw Protection Tips for Your Furry Friend 🐾

Winter is a season of snowy adventures, but it can also be tough on your dog’s paws. Salt and de-icers used to clear ice can cause irritation and dryness. Keep your furry friend's paws protected with these easy tips:

1. Prep Before the Walk

• Paw Balms or Waxes: Apply a protective paw balm or wax before heading outside. These act as a barrier against salt and harsh chemicals.

• Boots for Paws: For extra protection, invest in dog boots. Look for ones with non-slip soles and adjustable straps for comfort and security. Our editor loves Walkee Paws for their anti-bootie senior Puggle—they can’t easily kick them off because they’re legging boots! 

2. Watch Out on the Walk

• Stick to Pet-Friendly Paths: When possible, choose paths treated with pet-safe de-icers to reduce exposure to harmful salts.

• Avoid Salt Piles: Steer your pup away from visible salt piles or heavily treated areas. This is especially difficult if you live in a city, where those piles appear regularly. Walking in grass or snow helps avoid sidewalk salt. 

3. Post-Walk Paw Care

• Rinse and Dry: As soon as you get home, wipe your dog's paws with a bowl of warm water or a damp cloth to remove any salt or chemical residues.

• Check for Damage: Inspect their paws for cracks, redness, or stuck debris between the toes. Apply a soothing balm if needed.

4. Regular Maintenance

• Trim Fur Between Pads: Keeping the fur short helps prevent ice, snow, and salt from clinging to their paws.

• Hydration is Key: Use a paw moisturizer to prevent dryness and cracking caused by winter weather.

Bonus Tip: Opt for pet-safe ice melts around your home to ensure your dog is protected even in your own yard.

With these tips, you can enjoy winter walks while keeping your dog’s paws comfortable and healthy. Stay safe, and have fun out there! ❄️🐕

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Dog Food and Supplement Recalls

Here are the recent recalls and advisories:

• Blue Ridge Beef - Puppy Mix for potential salmonella.

• Hollywood Feed - Carolina Made Chicken Chips Dog Treats for potential salmonella.

• Gaines Family Farmstead - Chicken Chips Dog Treats for potential salmonella.

• ANSWERS - All beef and chicken dog foods for potential listeria and salmonella.

The Smile Section

If you have a photo and/or story that can make us smile, send it to [email protected].

Vet Recommendation — DIY Paw Balm

Petroleum jelly can serve as a quick alternative, but be mindful of excessive licking as it may cause stomach upset. Before walking, apply a balm layer to create a protective barrier. After the walk, clean off any remaining balm and residue. Many balms can also be used after walks to moisturize and soothe dry or irritated paw pads.

Treats

• 🐶 Meet Simon the Honorary Dog Mayor of NYC! Read all about this adorable leader of the Big Apple.

• ✍️ Curated dog content: I Love Every Dog creates adorable, heartwarming, and real daily content about dogs, like this post about adorable experts on being left alone.

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