Road salt, grit, and frozen pavements crack and burn paw pads through the winter months — and salt is mildly toxic if a dog licks it off afterwards. This four-ingredient balm forms a thin protective barrier before walks and softens any cracking that's already there. All four ingredients are safe if licked, which is the most important rule of any pet skin product.
If your dog has cracked or sore pads already, apply a slightly thicker layer at bedtime when they're settled. The balm has time to absorb overnight rather than getting licked off immediately.
Do not add essential oils to a paw balm — many of them, including tea tree, eucalyptus and citrus, are toxic to dogs and can be fatal to cats even in small amounts. The four ingredients in this recipe are deliberately chosen because all of them are safe if licked off the paws (which they will be).
Shelf life: 12 months at room temperature.
The same balm works for cracked human heels — useful in the winter months. Make a double batch and keep one tin for yourself.
Oatmeal shampoos for itchy skin, gentle ear cleaner, the honest natural flea control chapter, golden paste turmeric for joint support, separate guidance for dogs and cats throughout. Vet-cautioned, with safety flags on every recipe.
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