Home made paw balm recipe

This soothing home made paw balm contains coconut oil, shea butter and hemp seed oil which helps to soften cracked paws. Beeswax creates a protective barrier between the paws and surfaces so your dog can play in the snow without pain. It also helps prevent transepidermal water loss. All the ingredients are safe for dogs so it is not dangerous if the paws are licked. The cream can also be used on dry snouts.

Paw pads are covered in tough skin that protects your dog’s paws. They also have a thick layer of fat in them that protects the paws from heat and cold. However, your dog’s paws can blister, crack and dry out if exposed to harsh weather for long periods of time. Additionally, walking on snowy roads that have been salted can cause further discomfort and damage to your dog’s paws.

When you take your dog for walks in very cold weather it is recommended to wear paw socks or cover the feet in paw balm to protect the paw. Also, do not walk your dog on very hot pavement or surfaces. Rather find a shady path to enjoy. Paw balm can also be used to soothe cracked and dry paws.

If you are going to be out for long periods or walk on a lot of snow and ice, we recommend using paw socks. Then apply the paw balm after the walk to moisturise the paw.

Home made balm recipe

Ingredients

The recipe makes enough ointment to fill a 150ml jar.

• 35g Shea butter
• 30g coconut oil
• 20g hemp seed oil (or olive oil)
• 15g beeswax

Equipment needed

1. Stainless steel bowl or a bowl that can withstand heat
2. Scale
3. Thermometer (suitable for cooking)
4. 150ml jar with lid. For example, a clean jam jar.
5. Surface disinfectant (70% alcohol)

Method

Before you begin, it is important to disinfect all surfaces, utensils and the jar for the balm. You can purchase 70% alcohol surface disinfectant at the pharmacy. Use this and a kitchen towel to disinfect the surfaces.

1. Weigh all the ingredients and place them in a stainless-steel bowl or a heatproof bowl.
2. Make a water bath in a saucepan and place the bowl with the ingredients over the water bath.
3. Heat the ingredients over medium to high heat until the ingredients have melted and reached a temperature of 75 degrees.
4. Carefully remove the bowl from the heat with oven mitts and wipe the underside so that no water enters the melted oils.
5. Carefully pour the oil mixture into the clean and dry jar and allow it to cool completely before putting the lid on the jar. The balm should be cooled at room temperature.
6. Massage the balm on dry cracked paws and snouts. You can even use it on your own dry hands.
7. Enjoy!