"I think his paws are starting to smell..." Paw Care For Your Furry Child
People say their dog’s paws smell like popcorn or corn chips. As dogs’ sweat glands are found on their paws, the micro-organisms living in the paws tend to give off this strange… aroma, a perfectly normal phenomenon. However, if you notice a change in the scent or your dogs start licking their paws almost as often as a cat, things might take a concerning twist.
Content
What is pododermatitis?
Pododermatitis, an inflammation of the skin of the paw, is a common condition that affects all dogs. There’s an array of signs that you can watch out for:
- Excessive licking or even nibbling
- Irritation, redness, or swelling
- Red or brown stains
- Loss of hair around the paw
- Dampened, swollen skin around the nail
- Abnormal odour
- Discharge or abscess, especially between toes
- Limping when walking
What causes pododermatitis?
Pododermatitis is often only a part of greater issues in a dog’s health. It can be triggered by many reasons. Hence, why it’s frustrating to locate the true cause. The most common causes include:
1. Wound Infection
A daily walk with our furry babies is a good way to exercise and strengthen our bond. However, if the terrain is particularly rough, your dog may have sustained small, unnoticeable cuts from rubbles or even just a splinter. Bacteria and fungi can enter the wound easily and trigger pododermatitis if not properly disinfected.
2. Allergic Reactions
Just like us, dogs could be allergic to one thing or another, be it their daily diet or even just the pollens from a blooming flower. If you’ve noticed a seasonal pattern in their paw-blems, it’s wise to run some tests with a vet.
3. Humid Environment
Dogs have significantly fewer sweat glands than us, and paws are one of the areas where it’s found. The high humidity of Hong Kong, especially at the beginning of spring, provides the perfect cradle for the bacteria and yeasts to accumulate.
4. Creepy Crawlies
It’s no secret that fleas, ticks, and other smaller parasites LOVE leeching off our fur babies. These little crawlies are not only uncomfortable and annoying, but some might even cause allergic reactions in your dog.
5. Other Immunity or Endocrinology Issues
Dogs with other immunity or endocrinological conditions may be more prone to pododermatitis. When in doubt, it’s time to run a full check-up with your vet.
Pododermatitis doesn’t go away over time, so if any signs arise, seek immediate medical attention with a vet and discuss treatments.
How do I prevent it?
As concerning as pododermatitis is, fortunately, there are ways for us to help reduce the external risks that trigger it.
Clean The Paws After Every Walk
The paws touch the ground with their every step. Imagine the dirt and bacteria… By cleaning their paws thoroughly with a specialized cleanser, you can clear off the dirt and reduce bacteria and fungus. It’s a worthwhile step to reduce their risk of pododermatitis.
Made in Australia, MrOrganic is developed with the needs of sensitive pups in mind. Their certified organic Paw Cleanser comes with a plushy soft silicone brush to clean all the dirt in all hidden corners. The gentle formula cleanses and pampers all at once.
Best part? No rinsing is needed, simply wipe off the foam with a clean, dry towel afterward.
Pawfect Paw Care On-the-Go Set comes with a bag, the Paw Cleanser, and an organic cotton towel so you can give your dog the gentlest organic care on the go! Stay fully prepped for any emergencies!
Dry Thoroughly After Every Shower
While it’s quite some work to dry their coat thoroughly, by keeping them dried, you can keep your dog safe from the bacteria that spawn from humidity and prevent your dog from catching a cold at the same time.
There are many available pet cleansers and pet care products, but one with a natural, organic formula can surely give you peace of mind. MrOrganic 2-in-1 Conditioning Dog Shampoo is formulated with 83% certified organic ingredients, keeping it natural and simple, while balancing the natural pH value of the skin. This gentle shampoo carries no artificial perfume so it can cleanse, moisturize, soften, and soothe without causing any irritation!
Trimming the Paw Hair
Long paw hair can be more than a slippery accident but also the perfect breeding ground for fungi and bacteria. By trimming the paw hair regularly, you can keep them dry and clean.
After trimming, lather a thin layer of MrOrganic’s Dog Balm on your furry baby’s paws and nose to keep these delicate areas moisturized and protected. The natural organic formula reduces itching and prevents allergies, especially during the changing seasons.
Via@mrorganic.co Instagram; from miumiu_thegiantpoodle Instagram
Give your pet a full pampering protective regimen with the Signature Dog Walking Gift Box! Packed with a Dog Balm, a 2-in-1 Conditioning Dog Shampoo, a Pet Sanitising Deodorising Spray, a Paw Cleanser, a carrying handbag, and an Organic Cotton Towel, this PAWfect gift box is here to give your beloved dog full frontal organic care on the go!
The paws of a dog have importance beyond our imagination: they balance, insulate, and even sense the vibration in the earth. They deserve more pampering, so give them the care they deserve today with MrOrganic!