It doesn’t matter if it’s pouring or snowing outside; you still need to take your dogs for walks. Unfortunately, your Rottie may experience aggravation from walking on the salted sidewalks in winter. In these conditions, it is extremely important to wash their paws after returning from every walk.
If your dog is particularly sensitive to the effects of cold and other environmental factors, you might need to take extra care when washing its paws. In addition to keeping your floors clean, inspecting your Rottweiler’s paws for injuries and treating them promptly will help you avoid future issues. That’s because it can be hard to see any injuries if your dog’s paws are covered in dirt.
Chronically filthy paws are also more likely to develop irritation or abrasions. Read on for advice on how to properly wash your dog’s paws after a stroll in the park. When your Rottie’s paws are clean, they’ll have a better quality of rest, and you’ll let them snuggle up with you on the couch while you enjoy blackjack at the Grand Vegas online casino.
1. A quick tidy-up with wet wipes
If your dog’s paws are only somewhat dirty after a walk, you can probably get away with merely using a few damp towelettes to wipe them. Check the label to be sure the wipes you’re using are pet-friendly. Towelettes are a human convenience, but they may be dangerous to your pet because they contain chemicals and alcohol.
Wipes should only be used if they are made from all-natural materials and have been given the all-clear by a veterinarian. If you want to save money without sacrificing effectiveness, you can wipe your dog’s paws after a walk with a washcloth that has been soaked in warm water.
2. Washing the paws thoroughly
It may take more than wet wipes or washcloths to remove debris or muck from your Rottie’s paw pads. If you want your dog to be completely clean after a walk, you must thoroughly wash its paws. Using a sprayer in the sink or a bath is the most convenient way to clean them.
You may need to use a sprayer to clean your Rottweiler in the bathtub if he or she is huge or has a lot of fur on their ankles and feet. Clean the dirty paws and fur well with dog shampoo, and then rinse with lukewarm water to remove any traces of dirt and shampoo.
3. Don’t forget about the toes and nails
Ensure you get in between your dog’s toes and under its nails when cleaning its paws. Wiping between your dog’s claws and pads can help protect their feet from the harmful effects of elements like ice melts. If you don’t, your dog will lick these areas to clean them, putting them at risk of infection.
Infections can arise from a buildup of bacteria and viruses in the spaces between the toes and the pads if these areas aren’t cleaned regularly. Take care to wipe each claw separately for optimal results. Lastly, ensure your dog doesn’t leave wet paw prints all over your floor after you’ve cleaned them by patting them dry with a towel.
4. Remove excess hair from their feet
It’s especially important to pay close attention to the hair between your dog’s pads. Doing so will keep that area clear of trapped dirt. Because the skin on a dog’s foot pads is so thin, you should have a professional do the trimming for you. You can do the rest of the leg trimming if your dog cooperates.
Avoid cutting too close to the pads and toes when shaving to prevent injury and protect them from the outdoors.
5. Put dog boots on their feet when it’s cold
If your dog likes wearing dog booties, you’re lucky because they’re an excellent way to protect its paws from harmful elements like salt and grime. Snowballs will form on top of the booties if the snow is more than an inch deep. Therefore soapy water will be necessary in that instance.
Remember to take the booties off your Rottie as soon as you go back inside, especially if the snow is deep, so that his fur can dry out. A spare pair is crucial just in case one pair of boots is lost in the snow.
6. Scrub clean any open wounds
Check your furry friend’s paws for wounds, blisters, and abrasions when you return from a stroll. These wounds might seem harmless initially, but they can quickly become infected and pose a serious risk to your dog’s health. Consult your vet if the wound looks infected or severe.
The first step in treating a minor wound that may be treated at home is to wash the affected paw thoroughly with warm water to eliminate any dirt or debris that may be present. Then, disinfect the area using a diluted antiseptic. Once the wound is dried, apply a generous dose of pet-safe antibacterial lotion or antiseptic. You can put a pad over the wound, but it may fall off once your dog starts moving about again.
Conclusion
Using these guidelines, you’ll be able to clean up your dog thoroughly after each stroll. Your Rottie’s disposition and activity level will always improve after a bath.