Is Road Salt Naughty or Nice?

In many places around the country the snow has started to fall, unless you are lucky enough to live in one of those 70 degrees and sunny cities. And, this time of year, it’s easy to stay inside and not take your dog for the ever-so-needed daily walk (or two).   Dogs get stir crazy like we do!

With the snowfall and road salt, your daily walks could now be a hazard to your pets health. Two words: Road Salt. While the salt helps melt the ice and prevent walkers or drivers from accidents, it isn’t nice to your pet’s paws.

In fact, the salt can be very painful. I did some research on some preventative measures:

Take your dog for walks…off the beaten path:
• Find nearby parks, fields, or even wooded walking paths to walk your dogs

• Look for other un-salted terrain

If you have to walk in salted areas, try these tips:
• Rinse and Repeat. After every walk, be sure to wipe your pet’s feet with warm water. This will help wash off any of the salt. Honestly, this is a good practice anyway as pets can bring in all sorts of goodies, pollen, and allergens on their feet.

• Frequent Pedicures. Keep your dogs feet clean. Regularly trim their nails and groom the stray hairs. It’ll help prevent icy, salty crumbs from getting caught. PetSmart and other local groomers offer a nail trim service. It’s a good habit to get into.

• MONEY SAVING TIP: trim your dogs nails and paw fur

• Paw Wax.  Try Paw Wax, it’s what the Mushers use! It helps dogs grip slippery surfaces and prevents cuts from sharp ice and salt.

• WARNING! Be sure to really clean their paws afterwards. Little pieces of wax can get stuck in carpeting and even stain.

• Surrender to booties like Paw Tectors, only if you have to.  Personally, I’m not a fan of the bootie. And, Copley refuses to wear them. Last time I attempted to get her to lace up, she marched around like a little soldier – kick, kick, kick. It was an adorable sight!

How to treat cuts:
• Rinse with warm water and put a little Bacitracin on the cuts.

• WARNING! Watch out for lickers. If your pet does have cut feet and is licking them. You can wrap with a piece of gauze and a little medical wrap. We use a stylin’ pink color wrap.
• Of course, always consult a vet if your dog has cut, swollen, or torn pads.

Share Here.  What are you favorite off-the-beaten path places to walk your dog?