How to protect your dog’s paws from reagents on the streets: a review of protective waxes, balms and shoes

With the onset of cold weather, reagents appear on the streets of Belarusian cities that can irritate the pads of dogs. So that the walk does not end in dryness, cracks or inflammation, owners should pre-treat the paws with protective wax or balm, and if necessary, use waterproof shoes. In Belarus, such funds cost about 6 to 20 rubles, and dog shoes - from 20 to 55 rubles per set.

How dangerous are reagents

Road reagents and salt, which treat the sidewalks, can get between the fingers and pads of the paws. With prolonged contact, they can cause dryness, peeling, irritation, microcracks and painful sensations when walking.

Especially vulnerable are dogs with sensitive skin, short hair between the fingers, and animals that spend a lot of time on treated streets. After a walk, reagents can remain on their feet, so it is important to wash them off.

Protective wax and balm

Protective wax or balm create a thin water repellent film on the pads. It reduces direct skin contact with reagents, snow and moisture, and helps prevent dryness and cracks.

There are several options available in Belarus:

ZOORIK, protective wax for paws, 100 ml - about 14.34 BYN.

Winter wax for paws of dogs and cats from salt and reagents, 57 g - about 5.79-6.46 BYN.

BeautyPet, wax balm for paws from reagents and cracks, 100 ml - about 9.29-15.82 BYN.

Pamilee, hypoallergenic protective wax for paws, 100 ml - about 15.82 BYN.

ROXY-PETS, protective wax-spray for paws, 50 ml - about 7.91-13.73 BYN.

ArtiPets, wax for the paws of dogs and cats, 50 ml - about 34.35 BYN.

Wax or balm is better applied in a thin layer on the pads and between the fingers 10-15 minutes before walking. After returning home, the paws should be washed with warm water and thoroughly dried.

Dog shoes

Shoes are more reliable protection during the period of active processing of streets with reagents, especially for dogs who walk for a long time or on busy roads. Waterproof shoes with rubberized soles protect not only from chemistry, but also from dirt, ice, sharp objects and hypothermia.

In Belarusian shops there are such options:

Triol, dog boots with "legs" - about 51.21 BYN per set. They are declared as waterproof and protect against road reagents, gasoline and oils.

Shoes for dogs "Paws" in stores Hyperzoo - about 41.99 BYN for a set of four pieces.

Homepet boots, size S - about 23.50 BYN.

Ami Play shoes, size XS – about 22.06-22.58 BYN.

Duvo Plus shoes, size L – about 48.99 BYN.

The Trixie Walker is about 55.25 BYN.

Ferplast Protective Shoes are about 52-74.50 BYN, depending on size.

Shoes should tightly, but not tightly fix the paw. If the shoes fall off, rub or the dog is uncomfortable in them, it is better to choose a different size or model.

Socks and linings

For short walks, protective socks or anti-slip linings can be used. They do not replace full-fledged shoes, but can help with light snow, dirt or the need to protect a damaged pad.

In Belarus, anti-slip linings cost from about 8.16 BYN, and protective cotton socks - from 8.11 BYN.

How to care after a walk

After each walk through the treated streets, the paws should be washed with warm water, paying attention to the space between the fingers. They should then be thoroughly dried with a towel and inspected for cracks, redness, stuck stones or ice.

If the skin between the fingers is irritated, you can apply a restorative balm after the paws are completely dry. If there is pain, lameness, severe redness, weeping or an unpleasant smell, it is better to consult a veterinarian.

What to choose

For short city walks, protective wax or balm is often enough. For long walks, active dogs, frosts and streets with a large number of reagents, waterproof shoes with rubberized soles are more practical.

The best option is to combine both methods: before leaving apply wax, and after a walk be sure to wash and dry your paws. This helps reduce contact with reagents and maintain the health of the pads during the cold season.

Photo: Pixabay, neural networks, ozon. by