Help, what do I do? My dog's paw is looking really bad, and I'm honestly freaking out right now. She’s an energetic 3-year-old lab mix, and after our usual morning walk, I noticed she was limping a bit more than her usual "I’m too tired to move" act. When I checked, her paw pad was all torn up and looked really raw, like she walked on a cheese grater or something. It’s never been this bad before. She’s whining a lot, and I don’t know if I should take her to the vet ASAP or if there’s something I can do at home to help her heal. Should I put some kind of bandage on it? I just don’t want to make it worse, and it's stressing me out! What would you guys suggest?
I completely understand why you're worried. When a dog's paw seems "absolutely wrecked," it's definitely something you'll want to address promptly. A paw issue can result from various causes, such as injury, exposure to harsh surfaces or chemicals, infections, or even allergies.
First, take a gentle look at your dog's paw. Check for any visible wounds, swelling, or foreign objects like thorns. If you notice bleeding, washing the paw gently with warm, soapy water can help prevent infection. Applying a clean, soft cloth can control bleeding until it stops.
If there's no open wound, consider if they might have walked on hot pavement, ice, or rough terrain recently, which could cause irritation or burns—moisturizing the paw pads with a pet-safe balm might offer relief.
Signs that suggest a more serious issue include persistent limping, swelling that doesn't go down, signs of severe pain when touched, or if your dog starts licking the paw excessively, which can indicate infection. In these cases, it’s best to have a vet take a closer look.
It would be a good idea to book a video consult with Dial A Vet to get a more tailored assessment and guidance. This way, we can ensure your canine companion gets the care and comfort they need.
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