As we leave the extreme temperatures of this year’s summer behind, it can feel like you can breath easy as a dog owner. But while burned paws are no longer a problem, a new one arises with winter.
Winter is actually the peak season for claims around dog paw injuries, specifically in January where 28% more claims occur than the monthly average. That’s according to Agria Pet Insurance.
Gundogs account for half of all of these claims. Gundogs are a group of dogs that. Were used for hunting back in the day. They tend to be more curious and therefore more at risk of unexpected injury when off the path.
Labradors make up the largest percentage of these claims with 28%, followed by cocker spaniels at 11.4% and golden retrievers at 7.7%. Of all of the injuries that occur, puncture wounds are the highest risk.
“Paws and pads take more punishment in winter. Frozen ground, grit, and hidden hazards under snow or leaves can cause cuts or injuries. Some of these are not spotted until there is visible bleeding or a pet is limping,” says Lars Mortensen, head veterinarian at Agria App.
“Gundogs spend a lot of their time running off lead through undergrowth, brambles, water, and more, which exposes their pads and paws to far more sharp and abrasive hazards than the average pavement walk.”
However, it isn’t just gundogs that are known to get these injuries. All dogs are going to be more at risk at this type of year.
“Smaller crossbreeds have been shown to be more prone to puncture wounds to the paws and pads, and this may be due to these breeds being closer to the ground, often found sniffing around under hedges and in verges, where thorns, glass and other sharp objects may be encountered more frequently,” says Mortensen.
“Owners should ensure that they’re extra vigilant when checking their pets' paws after a walk in winter and keep hair between the toes trimmed. If a cut or wound is deep, won't stop bleeding, causes lameness, or is impacting your dog's normal routine and habits, speak to a vet as soon as possible.”
While it isn’t possible to pre-empt each injury before it happens, you can make plans to get ahead of them once they do happen.
