During the winter and early spring, your furry friend will encounter a lot of salt and ice during their daily exercise. The salt left on paws can cause irritation and can be dangerous if ingested. Using balm on your pet’s paws can help protect them from the elements.  

Here’s our homemade recipe to use for your pet’s paws. 

Homemade paw balm for pets 

What you’ll need: 

6, 1oz heat-safe tins 

Small pot or double broiler 

2 oz olive oil 

2 oz coconut oil 

1 oz shea butter* 

4 tsp beeswax 

*Be sure to use shea butter and not cocoa butter, as cocoa butter can be toxic to dogs. 

Paw balm instructions 

In a small pot – or double boiler – over low heat, melt the oils, shea butter, and beeswax. Stir continuously until it’s all melted and well blended. 

Pour the mixture into the heat-safe tins. 

Let them cool on the counter until they harden. 

Cap and label. 

Keep away from extreme heat. 

Use within 1-2 years. 

This recipe will make enough to fill approximately 21-24 standard lip balm tubes or 6-1 oz. tins. 

If you walk your dog without any protective product applied, remember to wipe their paws with a warm towel once you come inside, and gently pat dry. This is to remove any excess salt and ice, which can cause irritation if ingested. You may want to also consider using salt-free alternative ice melters around your property. 

If this information was helpful, please help us continue to educate about pet health and well-being by making a donation. As a registered charity that does not receive annual government funding, the Ontario SPCA depends on the generosity of donors to change the lives of animals in need. 

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