#MiddleburyCT #Frostbite #ColdWeather
DEAR PAW’S CORNER: I hope you will warn your readers to take care of their dogs’ paws during the winter. Recently, after a big snowstorm, I took my toy poodle, Blake, out for his morning walk. Five feet from the door, he let out a yelp and started limping with his right front paw lifted. A big piece of rock salt had embedded itself in one of the pads! I took him back inside to clean the wound. Fortunately, it wasn’t too bad, but I had to carry him outside for the rest of the week to do his business until it healed. – Tired Momma in Buffalo, New York
DEAR TIRED: Many owners are aware that ice and snow can cause frostbite injury to their dogs, but some don’t realize that rock salt and other deicers are also dangerous. In addition to potentially cutting their paws, deicing mixtures that have low or no salt use chemicals that can poison pets.
Before venturing out in cold weather – even when it’s above freezing – dogs of all sizes should have on booties and a warm vest (one that is water-resistant if it’s snowing or raining). I know some owners will scoff and say that dogs survived thousands of years without booties. But they didn’t have to contend with salt-strewn sidewalks!
A frostbitten paw is very painful, as well, and could mean your dog is sidelined indoors for several days as the injury heals. Getting too cold while outside – especially for small dogs – can cause hypothermia or reduce their resistance to illness. So remember, if it feels cold to you, it feels cold to them. Take heed and protect your dog from cold weather.
Send your tips, comments or questions to ask@pawscorner.com.
© 2025 King Features Synd., Inc.
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