Foot Soaks for Paws

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.