The Avenues Vets’ Guide to Healthy Paws This Spring
April 13, 2026
Spring is a wonderful time for longer dog walks and outdoor adventures around Lanarkshire, but it can be surprisingly tough on your pet’s paws. From muddy paths to dry, dusty ground and hidden grass seeds, the change in season brings new challenges for those hardworking feet.
A simple routine can help keep paws healthy and comfortable — keep reading for The Avenues Vets’ steps to keeping your dog’s paws healthy.
If your furry companion is suffering with painful paws, then book an appointment and we’ll have them feeling great again in no time.
Book a paw pick-me up appointment
A spring guide to healthy paws: the ‘check, clean, dry’ routine
1. The Quick Check
After every dog walk — whether through mud, woodland or dry grass — The Avenues Vets’ team recommend taking 30 seconds to examine your pet’s paws. Look closely between the toes and around the pads for trapped grit, small stones, grass seeds or tiny thorns. These can easily lodge in the skin and cause irritation or infection if missed.
2. The Gentle Cleanse
Use a damp, soft cloth or pet-safe wipe to remove environmental irritants. In wet weather, this helps wash away mud and debris. In dry conditions, it removes invisible pollen and dust that can trigger seasonal itching. Avoid heavily fragranced products, as these may irritate sensitive skin.
Dog’s paws particularly dirty or muddy? If you need something more than a wipe but less than a bath, our team recommends part-filling a low-sided tub or cat litter tray with water (and a mild dog shampoo if needed) and create your very own portable dog paw wash!
3. The Dry-Off Rule
Our vets in Glasgow explain that moisture is one of the biggest enemies of paw health. After a rainy walk — or even after cleaning — always dry thoroughly, paying particular attention to the spaces between the pads. Leaving paws damp creates the perfect environment for yeast overgrowth, leading to redness, soreness and that distinctive “yeasty” smell.
4. Balm for Bliss
If pavements or trails are particularly dry or rough, applying a small amount of pet-safe paw balm can help keep the pads supple and prevent cracking. Think of it as a moisturiser for hard-working feet — keeping your pet adventure-ready for tomorrow.
Know the signs
Our vets at Avenues Vets explain that if your dog begins licking or chewing their feet more than usual, it’s often their way of telling you something feels uncomfortable, whether that’s a grass seed, minor injury or the early stages of seasonal allergy irritation. Persistent licking can quickly lead to inflammation and infection.
If you notice redness, swelling, limping or ongoing licking, it’s best to give us a call on 0141 643 0404 and arrange to have their paws checked promptly.
If you’re concerned about your dog’s feet this spring, book an appointment with our team at Avenues Vets. A quick examination can prevent small issues from becoming bigger problems and keep those paws healthy all season long.
Book your pet’s paw pick-me up appointment
