TL;DR: A peeling paw pad burn is a painful second-degree injury that requires veterinary care within 24 hours to manage pain and prevent serious infection.
What is a paw pad burn and why is my dog's skin peeling?
A paw pad burn occurs when the sensitive skin on the underside of your dog's feet is damaged by extreme heat, such as hot pavement, or caustic chemicals. When the pad begins to peel, it typically indicates a second-degree burn where the outer protective layer has separated from the sensitive tissue underneath, leaving the area raw and painful.
How urgent is a paw pad burn and when should I see a vet?
While this condition is rarely immediately life-threatening, it is highly painful and carries a high risk of infection. For this medium-urgency situation, you should:
- Contact a veterinarian within 24 hours for a professional assessment.
- Obtain professional pain management for your dog.
- Have the wound cleaned and receive appropriate medical bandaging.
How does sending a photo of the burn help my veterinarian triage the injury?
Providing a clear, high-resolution photo of the affected paw helps your veterinary team assess the situation before you arrive by:
- Allowing a professional to determine the depth and severity of the burn.
- Checking for visible signs of infection or embedded foreign debris.
- Determining if your dog needs to be squeezed in for an immediate emergency appointment.
- Providing specific first-aid steps you can safely perform at home before your visit.
Clinical Context (Merck Veterinary Manual)
For burned paw pads, first-degree burns are typically managed simply. Second-degree burns, characterized by vesicles and blisters, should be left intact to prevent infection and pain; an antibacterial dressing such as silver sulfadiazine should be applied while allowing an eschar to form. Third-degree burns require stabilization of the patient's systemic condition before wound management; the eschar should be covered with an antibacterial agent twice daily as it does not prevent bacterial contamination or evaporation. Successful treatment of burns depends on continual patient reassessment, as well as early and aggressive care.
Chapter: Dermatology
Source: The Merck Veterinary Manual, 11th Edition (Page 1854)