Paw Abrasions

From Dr. Kathy – Paw pad abrasions are very common in especially large breed dogs, but can occur in any size dog (or, even a cat) who has either walked on hot concrete, asphalt or sidewalks or who has played very hard outside wearing off the top layer of pad skin. This is like having a bad rug burn. Sometimes they can even have a flap of pad skin hanging on by just a sliver. That can be carefully trimmed off with scissors. It is best not to cover these wounds because bacteria like it when it is dark and moist and warm. Often these pets need neck cones to prevent licking which can worsen the lesions. Soaking the paw(s) in a cool Epsom salt solution or even a strong black or green tea solution may cause soothing. Boil four to five tea bags in two pints of water and allow it to cool. Soak washcloth in the cool tea and wrap around the paw. Do not fully ring out the washcloth beforehand. You want the solution to bathe the lesions. Do not rinse. Gently pat dry. The tannic acid in the tea can be soothing. Because these are painful veterinary pain medications are strongly advised. Do not use human pain medications as they can be harmful to the gastrointestinal tract and/or kidneys of dogs and cats.

Dr. Kathy

**The Vet Corner groups encourage members to establish a relationship with their local veterinarian, don’t wait until an emergency.**