| Westie dogs owners delight in the companionship their | | | | for these symptoms; the hairs and even the nails are a |
| dogs give them during long and leisurely walks. But this | | | | reddish brown. The pads are swollen. This means |
| activity should be one that brings pleasure to both. | | | | yeast and bacteria already be developing in the |
| How can you ensure that your dog also enjoys these | | | | crevices between the pads and around the nails. Visit |
| activities? First, you'll need to get your dog | | | | your vet so he or she can recommend medication to |
| accustomed to having his paws handled and | | | | reduce the swelling and alleviate the itching. |
| manipulated. | | | | Doing regular examinations on your Westie (Scottish in |
| These are important Westie health issues that come | | | | origin) dog's paw prior to and after your walks, will |
| under the grooming umbrella. | | | | make your dog eagerly await each sojourn. |
| When your west highland terrier is tolerant of such | | | | Here are some success tips on how to groom your |
| treatment it would be easier for both you and the | | | | westie. I am not talking about turning out a show dog. If |
| veterinarian to carefully scrutinize your dog if there are | | | | this is what you want, then go to a groomer. They can |
| cuts or bruises on, in and around his paws. | | | | be found in every town and city from London to New |
| Where should these foot exams take place? Pick a | | | | York to Atlanta. |
| spot that's comfortable for both of you, and is at the | | | | Most Westies enjoy being groomed. Begin brushing |
| same time well-lit. Here's how to do it. Put the dog's | | | | and examining your Westie when it is very young. Be |
| paw in your hand. Run your finger around every pad. If | | | | positive, patient and gentle. |
| you feel lumps, examine it closely to find out what it is. | | | | Grooming is a part of your Westie's general health |
| Keep a pair of tweezers handy, to pull out bits of twig | | | | care and hygiene routine. It includes brushing, combing, |
| that may be stuck. | | | | nail-clipping, ear and dental care, bathing and scissoring, |
| If the skin is broken, put anti-bacterial ointment or | | | | stripping or clipping of hair coats. Regular grooming |
| powder on the sore. Check the next day to ensure it | | | | stimulates circulation, improves appearance and |
| heals completely. Refrain from taking a walk with your | | | | reduces shedding. |
| dog in the next couple of days, until the healing is | | | | It also enables you to discover lumps, lesions, cuts, |
| completed. | | | | scratches or external parasites. Frequent haircuts are |
| Here's what you should do if you find a lump in one | | | | even more important for Westies than for humans. |
| foot that's not present in the other foot. Get your dog | | | | Long hair breeds dirt, bacteria and is more prone to |
| to the vet. He or she may have an abscess or an | | | | matting. |
| interdigital cyst. | | | | Use the proper grooming tools for the job. Consult |
| Examine and trim the paws regularly. | | | | your breeder, veterinarian or other Westie professional |
| Regularly trim all the hair that's out from between the | | | | for guidance. |
| pads. Don't trim it too tight. If you see a matt of hair | | | | A full grooming may include a bath. Water for a |
| sticking out, cut it. Don't strip or pull the hairs. It's painful | | | | Westie's bath should be tepid. Be sure to use a |
| for your dog. | | | | non-skid mat in the tub. |
| Here's what to do if your pet's paws are itchy. Look | | | | |