There’s a special brand of joy in welcoming a new pet into your home, especially when you choose the path of adoption. Giving a rescue dog a new lease of life is a rewarding and heartwarming experience. However, it also comes with responsibilities—one of which is ensuring their health and wellbeing.
Paw and nail care play a significant role in your rescue dog’s overall health. It’s more than just about keeping their paws looking neat and pretty, it’s about their comfort, their mobility, and potentially, their longevity. Ensuring proper paw and nail care can contribute to their overall physical wellbeing and give them the healthy and happy life they deserve.
Start by routinely inspecting your furry friend’s paws for any signs of discomfort, such as limping or excessive licking. Check for cuts, scrapes, foreign objects like pebbles or thorns, and any signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, heat or pus. If you detect any of these, promptly visit the vet for professional advice.
Nail care is equally crucial and involves maintaining the right length for your dog’s nails. Overgrown nails can cause pain, lead to infections, and affect your dog’s gait, making it less comfortable for them to walk or run. Regular trimming — typically every two weeks or so — is necessary to avoid these issues.
Consider investing in a good quality nail trimmer designed specifically for dogs, or perhaps a grinder for a less invasive option. But be careful not to trim too close to the ‘quick,’ the sensitive part of the nail. If you’re unsure, have a vet or groomer show you how to do it safely.
Adopting a rescue dog is a labor of love that involves more than snuggles and fun. It involves a commitment to their health that goes from snout to tail — and for the wellbeing of your rescue dog, their paws and nails are a great place to start.
