Split paw pads?

Question

My dog is 7 years old. Hes a rhodesian ridgeback cross and has always had problems with his paws. But now one of his pads seems to have split open and theres a pinky patch of flesh. Hes limping badly.
I was wondering whether i should soak it in salt water or if there is anything else i can do to help it heal.

All answers appreciated. thank you :)

Answer 1

NO !!!!!! NO !!!!!!
Don't use salt anything!!!
Thats often the cause of paw problems, ie the salt they put on the roads with snow and ice. (in the future make sure to clean is paws off well after being old on snowy roads, and don't use salt on your drive, or if he'll let you get him to wear booties , I know , I know but I don't make them just spread what I've heard sugested)

For Now!, clean up his paws as best as you can with nice warmish clean water, clean to split well but try not to open it more. I'd then dry it very well and put something along the lines of Polysporin on it, and wrap it up (closing the wound) with gauze and keep it as clean as you can --you might have to do this afew times like after he goes outside to piddle etc.
but keep the gauze wrapped (fairly tight, but of course not circulation restricting) and watch it. watch for infection if this happens off the the doctors, but otherwise in a few days take the gauze off and just keep watch to see it healing,(it might crack open again if so repeat). I will get better but it does hurt and bother them so go gentle on the big fella and
watch those feet especially in the winter!!!

Good Luck!!! Give him a big Ridgeback hug for me.

Answer 2

Bag Balm! Wash the paw with soap and water and apply some BB. (If you live near country, you can find it at feed stores and often Walmart. If you're in a city you might have to look it up online and order it.) My bf's dog tried to dig his way out of a crate once and wore all of his toes down to pink skin. A few days with the Bag Balm and his feet looked great! I know it made him feel better too, because it got to wear he'd see the tin and flop over on his side and stick his feet out for me.

Also, after it's healed, they have something called Musher's Secret. It's the paw wax they use for sled dogs, it coats, seals, moisturizes, and protects the dog's feet. Maybe that's something you could look into. You can also continue to use BB on his feet everyday to keep them soft and prevent cracking.

Answer 3

We once had a male black lab who had problems with his pads - your dog sounds like he has cut his pad and it is infected - take him to the vet who should be able to prescribe an antiotic. When you're there make sure you mention any other problems your dog has with his paws as they may be able to recommend the correct care for them.
Salt water is a good idea but bear in mind your dog may not like it as it will sting!

Answer 4

I think a visit to the vet is in order. Once his paw is healed there is a product called paw wax which keeps the pads soft and supple and less prone to cracking.

Answer 5

I know its costy but the vets is the best option, it will need cleaning and then sterile bandages over for good healing. Also they can then assess whether the laceration is small enough to heal by itself as it may need further attention. Definately an antibiotic injection to prevent infection and pain relief to ease the limping would be the best for him.
Also the bandage will only be kept on for few days so then you will require a buster collar thereafterso as he does not lick the area promoting quicker and better healing.

Answer 6

In any given situation, focus on what you do want your dog to do instead of on whatever he’s doing wrong. Learn how to train your dog https://tr.im/SIjnC

For example, suppose that on many evenings, your young dog gets busy looking for trouble just as you’re digesting your dinner. He grabs a boot from the mat by the front door and gallops through the house with it. You yell at him and take it away. He grabs its mate. You yell and take it away. He heads for the kitchen and starts checking out the counters in case something tasty’s been left behind. You chase him away. And on and on, until you’ve lost your temper and torn out clumps of hair you can ill afford to lose.

Answer 7

For cuts and scrapes on my dogs I use Sudocrem antiseptic healing cream you can get it from boot's or any chemists or even supermarkets. I have used it for years and it really works.A Professional greyhound trainer put me on to it :) But i still advise a trip to the vets if it doesnt improve.

Answer 8

I soaked my Cat's in salt water, and wrapped it up, but you should take him to the Vet too, they'll give him a shot for the pain

Answer 9

my dogs always cut their pads open theirs no need to go to the vet and be ripped off unless it looks infected, your best off just washing it in luke warm water and putting a bandage on it

Answer 10

I would not bother about trying any home remedies I would take him to the vet, that is what they are there for and they are the experts. I know it can be expensive but he is worth it. Right?