WHERE TO DO A FOOT SOAK
- For small dogs you can use the bathroom sink
- For big dogs you can use the shower tray, bathtub, or a paddling pool
- Or you can dunk feet individually in a bowl or cup.
WHAT TO USE
Iodine (betadine) is a valuable aid in the treatment of hot spots, skin irritations, small cuts and grazes, and itchy paws.
- Dilute iodine with water until the solution is the colour of iced tea.
- A good rule of thumb is 30ml of iodine to 10 litres of water for a routine wash or 30ml of iodine to 5 litres of water for pets with skin conditions.
Salt water (saline) is an excellent natural disinfectant.
- 1 teaspoon of table salt to 1 cup of warm water (previously boiled).
- Note: seawater may be contaminated and potentially aggravate.
For paws that are only a little irritated you can use chamomile tea or green tea (cooled first), a diluted vinegar soak (1:4 ratio vinegar to water). Solutions chilled in the fridge may be additionally soothing.
HOW TO DO IT
- Fill the tub with your chosen soak formula.
- Soak paws for at least 30 seconds. Pat paws dry with a towel.
- No need to rinse off (although removing excess salt is a good idea).
OTHER TIPS
- Applying aloe vera or paw balm after a wash is a great soothing addition!
- Keep paws dry in wet weather - towel dry or use dog shoes.
- Consider methods to stop persistent licking while the paws heal.