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Dog paw inflammation is a relatively common condition in dogs, and itchy paws are a common symptom. Although inflammation and itchy skin can affect any part of a dog’s body, the paws are one of the most common places where inflammation occurs.
Dogs with this form of itching typically spend a lot of time licking and chewing on their paws. Inflammation on the paws can be very annoying for your dog and also make him susceptible to other serious skin diseases.
Fortunately, inflammation in dogs, especially the paws, is often easy to treat and most dogs recover quickly. Below you will learn what inflammation in dogs is, why it occurs, what the signs of paw inflammation are and how to treat it.
How to Treat a Dog’s Inflamed Paw
Once the disease is discovered, you should start treating your dog immediately. Below are some of the typical remedies for treating dog paw inflammation, including a home remedy.
Materials needed
- hydrogen peroxide
- handkerchiefs
- Antibiotic ointment (or non-antibiotic, such as Vetericyn or Sulfodene)
- dog shoes or socks
Instructions
After a walk in difficult terrain, examine your dog’s paws. The pads of the paws can easily be cut open by rocks, ice, or crusted snow. Stones and sticks can also pierce the foot.
Hopefully, you’ll notice any sores or abrasions right away, before they become infected. If not, watch out for the following symptoms of a sore paw:
- swelling
- limp
- pus/discharge
- Crying or whimpering when weight is placed on paw
- no desire to strain the paw
- foul smell
If you suspect an infection, take action immediately as it can spread quickly. Contact a veterinarian immediately if you suspect the paw is severely diseased or has been affected for more than a few days.
Home Remedies for Dog Paw Inflammation
If you think home healing is necessary, first clean the wound thoroughly. Remove dirt and debris from the area by rinsing it with water. Then disinfect the area with hydrogen peroxide.
Peroxide should only be used once. It kills all germs in the wound, including the “good” bacteria that help the healing process. After the first rinse with peroxide, clean the wound with water in the future.
After cleaning the wound, apply a topical antibiotic ointment. If you are looking for a natural alternative, try massaging the diseased area with coconut oil. It has an antimicrobial and antifungal effect.
After applying the topical therapy, wrap the paw with gauze to keep it covered. You may also need to put a dog shoe or sock over the affected paw to keep your dog from chewing on the gauze.
Finally
If your pet won’t leave their paws alone, even when they’re wearing a shoe, consider putting an e-collar on them. Leave the antibiotic treatment on the affected paw for 48 hours. Then gradually increase the time the paw is exposed to the treatment. Keep a close eye on your pet to prevent them from licking the spot.