Hi,

I was just wondering if anyone has any advice for treating a cracked paw/pad. My 12mth Dobe was limping a few days ago & I noticed a crack on his pad, it was oozing a little so I bathed it in hibiscrub (sp). Since then he's stopped limping & it looks as though it's clearing up, but I've noticed a couple more cracks forming... I've read that it could be a zinc intolerance. I've also read to put some vaseline & talc powder on the pads.

I would appreciate it if anyone can help.

Thanks,
Sophie

Think if he is developing deep cracks you should at least check with the vet, even if you are correct and he is short of some needed elements, you need to know what, any why. It could be the diet but just as likely that part of his system is not, for some reason, dealing with the food he gets in a proper manner.

Treating with bathing and some sort of softening cream (I used Zinc and caster oil)  will not hurt but you need to know why he has the problem.

I think udderBalm may help :-)

Thanks Nova, I will keep an eye on the situation & if it doesn't get any better I will take him to the vet. He's on the barf diet & I've recently changed my supplier, so maybe it could be that?

Thanks dollface I will give it a go :)

Think is a dogs paws should not crack to the stage that they are weeping and there must be a reason need not be internal could be the sort of ground he is kept on or the walked on.

You can try softening the pads with some sort of cream or hardening with surgical spirit  but I would be inclined to soften and if there is no improvement within a week then a trip to the vet should be undertaken.

Hi Nova, I've been trying to think of all the possible reasons causing it & I got back from the south of france 2 weeks ago & Sniper was constantly jumping in & out of the pool (salt water pool) onto hot flag stones - it was 30 degrees... maybe the hot weather on holiday has contributed to it? It is no longer weeping... we'll see how it goes. Thanks for advice :)

It could be the unaccustomed heat in the ground (sort of cooked the pads) the salt water will have done nothing by good for the damage but may have also dried out the pads. Think the application as a emulsion like E45 or Zinc and caster oil or any of the baby bottom type barrier creams may also help, rub well in and restrict walking on the carpets or rugs until it is absorbed.