SPLASH - Paws Aboard Newsletter - November 2005 - News for Active Boaters and Their Pets

We need to protect our dogs' paws from environmental hazards. Paws can be damaged by broken glass, burning cigarettes, hot asphalt, rocks, sharp metal objects, dirt, mud, or abrasive surfaces. They are also susceptible to tick, fire ant and spider bites, as well as other outdoor allergens and irritants like foxtails and burrs that can caused them to constantly bite and lick their feet.

As winter approaches, dog owners need to address the many related hazards to their pet's paws. Ice, snow, slush and bitter cold can cause severe discomfort and damage. Rock salt and chemical de-icers used to clear the ice and snow that accompany cold winter weather can also irritate a dog's paws and turn a winter walk into a painful experience. Additionally, "snowbird" dogs vacationing at a sunny beach need to be careful of broken shells, shards of glass, and other sharp objects hidden in the sand.

By taking a little extra time to keep your dogs' paws well-groomed, you can minimize problems with cracked or sore pads, blisters, and infections.

• Inspect paws closely after walking in areas treated with salt and other de-icers. Look for cracks in the skin, splinters, embedded gravel, etc.
• Snow or slush from melting ice and snow on sidewalks can form lumps of icy snow, often mixed with rock salt and gravel, to build up between their foot pads and toes. The best solution is to simply let snow melt off in the heat of your home. Pulling on the packed snowballs will be painful for your dog and he'll be very reluctant to let you try a second time
• Wash paws with warm water after outdoor play and winter walks. It is important to wash away all traces of salt and other de-icers so a dog can't lick it off later.
• Keep your dog's nails cut short and the fur between his toes trimmed to a manageable level. A neatly trimmed foot will attract less ice and snow to collect inside. Untrimmed nails can lead to splayed feet, sore nailbeds, and even torn nail. When nails are too long, the toes spread apart when walking, leaving more space for snow and ice to build up.

Protection for Your Dog's Paws

Your pet will be walking in comfort and safety with a pair of durable, comfortable NEOPAWS Boots

Doggy boots are not just a novelty for pampered pets. Even paws covered in heavy fur get cold when they get wet. NEO-PAWS™ Boots provide good traction and stability, as well as protection from the elements. The extremely durable NEO-PAWS™ Regular Performance Shoes are ideal for use in icy or snowy conditions. The sole is made of a treaded rubber with extra gluing on the outside seams for added strength.

Benefits of NeoPaws boots and shoes for your dog include:

• Reduction of contact with grass pesticides and other irritants
• Protection from hot surfaces in the summer
• Keeps paws clean and dry in wet or snowy weather, on messy terrain,
  or at sandy beaches
• Protection from sand spurs and insect bites
• Added comfort for dogs that drag their paws
• Boating dogs will have added traction and boat decks are protected from marks and scratches
• Protection from snow, ice, salt, chemicals and freezing temperatures
• Protection from hidden sharp objects in the sand at a beach