The five-minute paw, nail and ear check
A quick weekly look at paws, nails and ears helps you spot burrs, cracks, redness or odor early. This is an inspection routine—not a substitute for veterinary care.
Check paws and pads
In good light, look between toes for seeds, burrs, redness, swelling or dampness. Check pads for cracks and foreign objects. Wipe dirty paws with a damp cloth and dry between the toes.
- •Do not dig out deeply embedded objects
- •Avoid human lotions unless your veterinarian approves them
- •Watch for repeated licking or limping
Look at nail length
Nails should not force the toes upward or change the way your pet stands. Dark nails make the sensitive quick difficult to see, so ask a groomer or veterinarian to demonstrate before trimming at home.
- •Never force a frightened pet through nail care
- •A grinder can still heat the nail—use brief touches
- •Dewclaws need checking because they may not touch the ground
Inspect the visible ear
A healthy ear should not have strong odor, marked redness, swelling or heavy discharge. Wipe only the visible outer folds with a veterinarian-approved product and soft pad.
- •Never insert cotton swabs into the canal
- •Do not pluck ear hair unless a professional recommends it
- •Pain, head shaking or balance changes need veterinary advice
Call your veterinarian for bleeding, swelling, discharge, strong odor, persistent licking, limping or pain.