I noticed that Lola’s paws are looking a little rough. The pads feel dry and jagged, the way my feet sometimes do after a few weeks off from the nail salon. But in her case, a pumice stone won’t help.

Skippy enjoys an afternoon walk.

So I read on The Dog Health Guide that hot concrete and asphalt can wear down your dog’s paws. After a long walk, you should put paw cream (specially made for dogs) or petroleum jelly on the pads of his feet. I’m going to start trying this on Lola today and will update you on the results in a few weeks, with before-and-after photos, too.

For now, here is a cute photo of my nephew’s dog, Skippy. My nephew is learning how to walk the dogs. At this rate, Skippy probably won’t need paw cream for a while.