Dog paw pad injury: What to do

Dog paw pad injuries are more common than many pet owners realize. These sensitive structures are constantly exposed to rough surfaces, hot pavement, sharp objects, and various environmental elements.

When a dog suffers a pad injury, it can be a source of significant discomfort and may even affect their ability to walk. The first sign of a paw pad injury is often limping, licking the paw excessively, or avoiding putting weight on the affected leg. You might also notice visible signs such as cuts, scrapes, bleeding, or even a flap of torn pad tissue.

If the injury is minor, such as a superficial abrasion, gently cleaning the area with warm water and a mild antiseptic can help prevent infection.

However, paw pads are slow to heal due to their constant use, so even small wounds must be monitored closely.

In some cases, the injury may be deeper or more complex, involving puncture wounds, burns, or torn tissue. These situations often require veterinary care, especially if there is persistent bleeding, swelling, signs of infection like pus or a foul smell, or if the dog is in visible pain.

It’s important to keep the dog from licking the wound excessively, as this can introduce bacteria and delay healing. Using a protective bootie or clean bandage can help, but these must be changed frequently to avoid moisture buildup and further irritation.

Activity should be limited during recovery, and walking on rough or hot surfaces should be avoided. Most importantly, if there is any doubt about the severity of the injury, seeking veterinary evaluation is the safest course of action.

References

Fossum, T. W. (2018). Small Animal Surgery (5th ed.). Elsevier.

Mathews, K. A. (2000). Wound healing and management. Veterinary Clinics of North America: Small Animal Practice, 30(1), 193–209.