The ice, snow, and salt from pavements can do a number on yourdog's paws.A DIYbalm—made with natural ingredientslike shea butter, coconut oil, and beeswax—will help keep theirpaw pads healthy this winter.
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Alex is the senior home editor for Martha Stewart. She has over 10 years of experience producing digital content in the home and lifestyle space, ranging from cleaning and organizing to etiquette and home design.
Updated on February 10, 2023
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Winter's cold conditions can wreak havoc on our skin—and the same is true for our dogs' paws. Our friend Chloe Mackintosh of Boxwood Avenue created this paw balm for that very reason. "Not only does our skin need a little extra love during the winter months, but our pups will benefit from extra care, too!" she says.
All of the non-toxic, all-natural ingredients in this DIY dog paw balm are American Kennel Club and veterinarian approved. Shea butter, coconut oil, and olive oil smooth, soften, and hydrate, while beeswax heals chapped paws. Beyond their conditioning and moisturizing properties, these ingredients are safe for pets that have allergies or other sensitivities, too, says Ivana Crnec, DVM, with Veterinarians.org. "They also help prevent irritation and speed up the healing of cracked and injured paw pads," says Dr. Crnec. Best of all, this balm can be used on both dogs and cats, she affirms.
Related: How to Protect Your Pet's Paws During Winter
This DIY dog paw balm is mild and safe to apply daily. Keep in mind that the exact frequency of use will depend on the goal. "For example, if using the balm for maintenance purposes, you can apply it between four and five times a week," says Dr. Crnec. "On the other hand, if dealing with an acute problem like cracked, dry paws, it is safe to use it up to two or three times a day."
To apply, massage a thin layer of balm into the skin of your pet's paw pads as often as needed. And don't worry if your dog licks it off. "Mine did!" Mackintosh says.
Note: This balm will keep for up to a year if stored in a cool, dry place. For more ideas, scroll through our entire collection of pet care projects and dog crafts.
Materials
- Large mason jar
- Coconut oil
- Olive oil
- 2 small glass jars with lids
- Shea butter
- Beeswax pellets
Instructions
Add 1/4 cup shea butter, 1/4 cup coconut oil, 1/8 cup olive oil, and 1/4 cup beeswax pellets to a large mason jar; stir to combine. (Tip: Use a mason jar that you don't mind dedicating to crafting purposes, as it will be hard to get it completely clean again.)
Fill a medium pot with enough water to cover the jar's contents by a few inches, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer. Place the jar into the pot; continue to simmer until the ingredients are completely melted, about 10 minutes.
Once melted, carefully remove jar from the pot, and pour the melted oils into small glass jars. Allow the mixture to cool down to room temperature and solidify before using.
Originally appeared: MARTHA STEWART
