Illustration: An owner gently rinsing and drying a dog's paw on an entrance mat after a winter walk, with light snow and gritted pavement visible outside.

Winter paw care: salt, grit, ice and post-walk checks

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Winter paw care starts with the route and ends with a gentle clean and check. Salt, grit, ice and wet ground can create problems that a quick towel over the back misses. Keep a simple cleaning station by the door so you can remove residue before your dog settles down and licks their feet.