After walking your dog in public parks, neighborhoods with chemical sprays, or apartment communities wipe down your dog’s feet with this paw wash recipe
I confess, I cheat and use either Young Living Seedlings Baby Wipes and Young Living Thieves wipes. convenient, easy, and you can keep in the car as well!
If you want to make a homemade wipe, consider this recipe:
Creating a simple, safe, and effective paw wipe solution for dogs is a great way to keep their paws clean after walks, especially if they’ve been walking in areas where they might pick up dirt, chemicals, or allergens. Here’s a recipe for a homemade paw wipe solution:
Homemade Dog Paw Wipe Solution
Ingredients:
- 2 cups distilled water
- 1 tablespoon mild, unscented baby shampoo or castile soap – you can also use Young Living Animal Scents
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional, helps with disinfecting)
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil or olive oil (for moisturizing)
- 5-10 drops lavender or chamomile essential oil (optional, for soothing properties)
Supplies:
- A clean spray bottle or a container with a lid
- Soft, clean cloths or paper towels
- A small towel for drying
Instructions:
- Prepare the Solution:
- In a bowl or container, mix 2 cups of distilled water with 1 tablespoon of mild, unscented baby shampoo or castile soap.
- Add 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar (if using) to help disinfect.
- Add 1 tablespoon of coconut oil or olive oil to moisturize and protect the paw pads.
- If desired, add 5-10 drops of lavender or chamomile essential oil for their soothing properties. Make sure to use only high-quality, pet-safe essential oils.
- Combine and Mix:
- Stir the mixture thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are well combined.
- Transfer to Spray Bottle:
- Pour the solution into a clean spray bottle for easy application. Alternatively, you can store it in a container with a lid and dip your cloths or paper towels into it as needed.
Usage Instructions:
- Spray or Dip:
- Spray a generous amount of the solution onto a soft cloth or paper towel. If using a container, dip the cloth or paper towel into the solution, ensuring it’s well-saturated but not dripping.
- Wipe Paws:
- Gently wipe each of your dog’s paws, focusing on the areas between the toes and around the pads where dirt and contaminants can accumulate.
- Dry Paws:
- Use a clean towel to thoroughly dry your dog’s paws after cleaning to prevent any moisture from causing irritation or infection.
Storage:
- Store the solution in a cool, dark place and use within 1-2 weeks. Shake well before each use to ensure the ingredients are mixed.
This homemade paw wipe solution is gentle on your dog’s skin and effective at removing dirt and potential contaminants they may pick up during walks. Always observe your dog for any signs of irritation or allergies when using new products and consult your veterinarian if you have any concerns.
For added paw pad soothing don’t forget the Animal Scents Ointment!