Winter came quickly to Colorado, which means it's time for peaceful, snowy dog walks. Colorado winter brings immense beauty, but it also poses risks when it comes to the inevitable layers of ice and salt that cover sidewalks. Ice and salt can damage paw pads and be harmful if ingested. Dogs can also slip on icy surfaces and injure themselves.

Common Injuries from Icy Sidewalks

• Cuts and abrasions: Jagged, icy surfaces may cause cuts or abrasions to paw pads. Some cuts may be severe enough to require stitches and antibiotics.

• Irritation, GI upset, and other systemic illnesses: Heavily salted sidewalks and roads can irritate paws. Dogs may be inclined to lick the salt from their paws, which can irritate their mouths and, if swallowed, cause drooling, depression, vomiting, or even dangerous electrolyte imbalances.

• Sprains and strains: A slip on the ice can cause soft tissue injuries, like torn muscles. Rest and anti-inflammatory medication prescribed by a veterinarian are usually sufficient to treat these injuries. Please do not give your dog over-the-counter human medications like ibuprofen or aspirin, as these medications are toxic to pets.

• ACL tears: Just like humans, dogs have an ACL in their knees. In some dogs, this ligament gradually weakens over time. One slip on the ice can cause this weakened ligament to tear completely. Dogs with torn ACLs suffer knee joint instability, pain, and eventually, arthritis. Treatment of this condition requires surgery with a specialty veterinary surgeon.

How to Safeguard Your Dog Against Ice-Related Injuries

Fortunately, with a little preparation and awareness, you can keep your dog safe all winter long. There are several effective ways to reduce the likelihood of injury and keep your dog safe during the colder months:

• Use dog booties for paw pad protection and traction
One of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent your dog from slipping is to invest in a pair of dog booties. Not only do they protect against cuts, abrasions, and salt exposure, but they also provide excellent traction for slippery surfaces. Choose boots that are specifically made for winter conditions and have a rubber or textured sole to prevent your dog from sliding.

• Keep your dog's paws clean and dry
If your dog won’t tolerate booties, consider a paw balm to keep the pads moisturized and protected against the cold. After walks, check your dog’s paws for ice buildup, especially between the toes. Snow and ice can collect in these areas and cause discomfort or cuts. Wipe down your dog’s paws after each walk to prevent irritation and remove residual snow, ice, or salt.

• De-ice your driveway and walkways
To prevent slips and falls, take proactive steps to treat icy surfaces around your home. Use pet-safe de-icers or sand to improve traction on walkways, driveways, and your yard. There are many pet-friendly de-icing products available, which can help make your dog’s environment safer during the winter months. Remember to avoid salt, as it can irritate your dog's paws and can be toxic if ingested.

• Watch out for ice patches
With Colorado’s ever-changing weather, patches of ice may be hidden beneath fresh snow. Pay close attention to the ground and keep an eye out for spots that might be slippery. At night, walk in well-lit areas or consider wearing a head lamp to spot ice patches to avoid.

• Strengthen your dog’s muscles
Regular exercise and maintaining your dog’s fitness can help improve muscle strength and balance, making him or her less prone to injury when navigating slippery surfaces. If you notice your dog experiencing mobility issues, talk to your vet about an appropriate fitness plan. AESC offers a physical rehabilitation service that helps dogs build and maintain strength, mobility, and balance as they age.

Final Thoughts

Winter should be a fun time for both you and your dog, and with some simple precautions, you both can avoid common hazards. By being mindful of icy conditions and ensuring proper paw care and traction, you can reduce the risk of slips, falls, cuts, and abrasions.
Should your pet experience a wintertime emergency, AESC is here 24/7 to provide expert veterinary care for dogs and cats. In addition, our surgery service treats hundreds of ACL tears per year. We also provide specialty services in anesthesia, cardiology, critical care, diagnostic imaging, internal medicine, neurology, oncology, and rehabilitation.