Dogs can burn their paw pads if they stand or walk on hot surfaces, such as asphalt or pavement during a hot summer day. Fires, rough terrain, snow and ice, extensive exercise, and certain chemicals that your dog may accidentally walk through can also cause burns. Most pet parents are familiar with the dangers of heat stroke, but they must also take into consideration how roads, sidewalks, and even gravel and soil can become dangerously heated when exposed to intense sunlight and temperatures.
While paw pads are designed to protect your dog’s feet, they are still susceptible to burns. Let’s look closer at how to treat your dog’s burned paw pad with this step-by-step guide.
Before You Start
- Keep in mind that dogs in pain may bite, even their owners. Use caution if your dog is injured to prevent getting bitten. If your dog will not let you examine them to assess the injury, veterinary assistance will be necessary.
- Have a first-aid kit for dogs on hand. The Vet in a Box™ Medical Kit is a great example and affordable.
- Purchase an Elizabethan collar, or E-collar. They can be found at most major pet stores or online.
- Keep your veterinarian’s phone number close by.
- Limping
- Holding feet off of the ground
- Being reluctant to walk
- Licking feet
- Whining, whimpering, or making other vocalizations
The 7 Tips on Treating a Burned Dog Paw Pad
1. Confirm a Possible Paw Pad Burn
If your dog allows you to safely examine their foot, look for abnormalities like:
- Blisters
- Bleeding
- Raw or ulcerated paw pads
- Redness and irritation
2. Clean the Affected Paw Pads
Remove any visible dirt or debris. You can soak your dog’s foot twice daily in an Epsom salt bath consisting of 1 teaspoonful of Epsom salt to 2 cups of water. Additionally, standing your dog in cool water can help relieve pain and swelling.
3. Protect the Injury
Keeping the burn clean is essential for healing and preventing infection. You can apply a properly fitted dog boot, sock, or bandage over the foot to protect it, making sure it is not too tight. A bandage that is too tight can restrict blood flow and may cause tissue injury. Mild burns may heal in 7–10 days, while more severe injuries may take weeks to heal.
4. Restrict Exercise
Limit your dog’s activity to allow the wound to heal. Keep to strict kennel rest, don’t allow jumping or running, do leash walks for potty breaks, and make sure they are on non-slip flooring to prevent further injury. A calm and relaxing environment with minimal distractions can help minimize their stress.
5. Use an Elizabethan Collar
An E-collar is especially important if your dog continues to lick or bother the wound. This will help prevent them from worsening the burn.
6. Monitor the Burn
Closely monitor your dog’s behavior and wounds. If they become lethargic, if they are unwilling to eat, drink, or get up on their own, or if their wounds appear infected (e.g., redness, foul odor, discharge such as pus, necrotic tissue, etc.), the best course of action will be to get them to your veterinarian as soon as possible for treatment.
7. Schedule an Appointment With Your Veterinarian
Getting your dog veterinary care is especially important if the burn is severe. Paw pad burns can quickly become infected, and your veterinarian may need to prescribe antibiotics and pain medications, further clean the wound, and bandage it as needed.
Conclusion
Paw pads can become burned by walking on hot surfaces, rough terrain, snow and ice, or irritating chemicals. Always be aware of weather conditions and surface temperatures prior to walking your dog. In some cases, walks should be kept short to prevent injuries. Conditioning your dog before long hikes and using dog booties can also help protect paw pads.
Featured Image Credit: Alice Chen, Shutterstock
