Winter in Canada can be brutal, not only for humans but also for their four-legged companions. Salt on pavements, ice and snow, can damage your dog’s paws. Luckily, our shea butter has this topic covered too!
TIPS:
As always, test new products on a small area and leave them for 24 hours to ensure no allergic reactions are present.
Choose non-toxic ingredients, preferably those approved by the American Kennel Club (our shea butter is raw, making it safe for external use).
Apply a thin layer of the balm on your dog’s paws by massaging it into the pads.
Don’t worry if your dog licks it off! It’s non-toxic and acceptable in small amounts. They’ll get used to the sensation soon enough and perhaps even put a leg out, asking for a paw-Pedi!
Ingredients:
¼ cup shea butter
¼ cup coconut oil
⅛ cup olive oil/avocado oil*
¼ cup beeswax pellets
There are two ways to melt the ingredients together:
Double Boiler method as used in our DIY Shampoo Recipe. Place a glass bowl onto a simmering pot of water. Stir the oils frequently until melted. Take off the heat and let it cool for a few minutes. Pour the liquid into a reusable glass bottle with a wide opening (it’s easier to scoop out the goodness).
Designated Mason Jar Method. Put all the ingredients in the mason jar and stir to combine. Fill a medium pot with enough water to cover the jar’s content by about 10cms. Don’t put the lid on the mason jar.
Bring the water to a boil and reduce the heat. Place the jar into the pot with an oven mitt until all the oils, and beeswax pellets are melted. Carefully remove the jar and pour it into a reusable glass container with a wide opening.
The mixture will solidify at room temperature and can be kept for up to two months in a cool, dark place.
*Avocado oil does not contain persin. Persin is a fungicidal toxin in the avocado and can be found in the pit. These can be dangerous to dogs and humans. Always put the pit in a home composter.
This paw-Pedi-balm also makes a great holiday gift for pet lovers!
After the pandemic, more animals have been surrendered to shelters than the number of pets finding new homes. Consider adopting from your local shelter and giving a loving home to an animal in need this season. Try our paw balm and let us know how it worked out!