Paw pads of a Dog are mostly overlooked when it comes to grooming and are thus prone to Corns. If left untreated, Corns in Dogs can lead to excruciating pain. If this seems like something your Dog is suffering from, read on!
The paw pads of a Dog are mostly overlooked when it comes to grooming, but they are one of your pet’s most crucial physical attributes.
Even though they’re made to be strong, paw pads can get infected under specific circumstances.
In most cases, the skin around the paws becomes crusty and later escalates into a severe infection. This condition is known as Corns.
If this seems like something your Dog is suffering from, you have landed at the right place.
Our team at MyFurries have clubbed everything about Corns for all the pet parents out there. Get to know about the major symptoms, probable causes and recovery methods.
So, what are Corns?
Corns, also known as Keratomas/Footpad Keratosis/ Hyperkeratosis are circular hard growths around a Dog’s paw. It causes painful calluses and carries the risk of severe infection. If left untreated, Corns in Dogs can lead to excruciating pain and uneasiness. Mostly, Dog breeds like Sighthounds are prone to it.
What leads to the occurrences of Corns in Dogs?
1. Scar tissue & Foreign Bodies:
Cuts and punctures on the paw pads lead to the accumulation of scar tissue at the lesion site. Thereafter, the scar tissue evolves into thick and hard skin.
2. Pressure & Abrasion:
Repetitive pressure and abrasion lead to the formation of a lesion on the paw pads.
3. Papillomavirus Infection:
Papilloma Virus causes well-circumscribed lesions on the paw pads. Due to constant chafing, the lesions get pushed into deeper layers and lead to the occurrence of painful mass.
What are the major symptoms of Corns in Dogs?
Lameness:
Your Dog will be unable to exert full weight on one or more limbs. Thus, the inability to walk/run on hard surfaces is one of the 1st major signs to look for.
Calloused Paws:
As a result of constant abrasion against rough surfaces, calluses develop on the paw pads. It leads to hardening and excessive drying of the skin, resulting in infection. Calloused Paws is an early sign of Corns in your Dog.
In case you notice such signs, consult a veterinarian for your Dog at the earliest.
How can Corns in Dogs be treated?
Surgical Removal:
It is recommended to consult a veterinarian at the first signs of Corns. Opt for the “Ask a Vet” service on MyFurries for all the expert tips.
Once you reach out to a veterinarian, he/she will opt for the surgical removal of Corns. Next, the foot is wrapped in a pressure relief bandage after the surgery. The bandage lifts the footpads to prevent pressure from interfering with the healing process.
Wet Dressings:
To provide comfort to your Dog, moist/ wet dressing is applied on the paw pads to lubricate the area. However, Topical Antibiotics are prescribed if there is a severe infection.
Wearing Therapeutic Boots:
Once the foot heals after surgery, make your Dog wear therapeutic boots to protect the paw pads from hard surfaces.
Last words to add:
While Corns can be painful and uncomfortable, Dogs having this condition can live long and regular lives. Nevertheless, if left untreated, Corns can have a severe impact on your Dog’s life. In an excessive case when the infection cannot heal on its own, your vet may recommend a toe amputation. Hence, it is important to reach out to a veterinarian at the right time to keep your Dog in sound health. If your dog is suffering from it , get medical advice today.
