A pet is more than just a companion—it’s a source of joy, routine, and even exercise. Whether you're walking your dog through the neighborhood or playing with your cat at home, staying active is essential for both you and your furry friend. However, foot pain, joint discomfort, or balance issues can make pet care more difficult.
Just as we pay attention to our pets’ health, we need to care for our own bodies—starting from the ground up! Here’s how to keep both you and your pet in top shape, from paws to toes.
1. Healthy Feet = Happy Walks
Walking is one of the best ways to keep both you and your pet healthy, but if foot pain is slowing you down, it’s time to take action.
Common Foot Problems That Can Affect Your Walks:
✔ Plantar Fasciitis – Heel pain caused by inflammation of the foot’s arch.
✔ Bunions & Hammertoes – Deformities that can make walking painful.
✔ Arthritis & Joint Pain – Stiffness in the feet and ankles that reduces mobility.
✔ Neuropathy – Numbness or tingling in the feet, common in diabetics.
Foot Care Tips for Pet Owners:
🐾 Wear comfortable, supportive walking shoes—avoid flip-flops or worn-out sneakers.
🐾 Stretch your feet and ankles before and after walks.
🐾 Keep your toenails trimmed to prevent discomfort in closed shoes.
🐾 Stay hydrated and drink water throughout the day
2. Joint Health for Both You and Your Pet
Joint pain isn’t just a human problem—our pets, especially aging dogs and cats, can suffer from arthritis and stiffness, too.
Ways to Support Joint Health for You & Your Pet:
✔ Stay Active: Gentle daily movement, like walking or stretching, keeps joints flexible.
✔ Maintain a Healthy Weight: Extra weight puts added stress on joints.
✔ Try Anti-Inflammatory Supplements: Omega-3s, turmeric, and glucosamine can help ease joint pain for both you and your pet.
✔ Use Supportive Surfaces: Padded rugs or orthopedic pet beds can relieve joint pressure for pets, while supportive shoes and custom-molded orthotics can help humans.
If your pet seems reluctant to move or you’re feeling joint discomfort yourself, check in with a veterinarian or podiatrist for specialized advice.
3. Preventing Fungal Infections for Pet Owners
If you’re a pet owner, your home may be full of moisture and bacteria from pet bowls, wet paws, or even pet dander. These conditions can make your feet more vulnerable to fungal infections, such as athlete’s foot or toenail fungus.
🐾 How to Protect Your Feet:
✔ Wash and dry your feet thoroughly, especially between the toes.
✔ Wear moisture-wicking socks, especially after outdoor activities.
✔ Keep pet bowls and floors clean to reduce excess moisture.
✔ Use hypochlorous acid spray—a safe, pet-friendly option for preventing foot infections.
If you notice any redness, itching, or thickened toenails, visit a podiatrist for treatment options.
4. Balance & Stability for Safe Pet Care
Many older adults struggle with balance issues, which can make bending over to pick up a pet or walking an excited dog a challenge. A sudden pull on the leash or a misstep could lead to a fall.
Tips for Improving Balance & Stability:
✔ Use a sturdy, slip-resistant leash for better control while walking.
✔ Strengthen your legs and core with simple exercises like seated leg lifts or standing on one foot.
✔ Be mindful of tripping hazards at home—keep pet toys, food bowls, and beds out of walkways.
✔ Consider using a walking aid, like a cane or walking stick, for added support outdoors.
✔ Use Pet-Safe Salt in the Winter – Icy sidewalks and driveways can be dangerous for both you and your pet. Avoid regular ice-melting salt, which can irritate your pet’s paws. Instead, use a pet-safe deicer that provides traction without harming your furry friend’s feet.
By taking precautions, you can keep both yourself and your pet safe from slips and falls during colder months.
5. When to See a Podiatrist
Many foot problems can be managed at home, but some issues require professional care. If you’re experiencing any of the following, it may be time to visit a podiatrist:
✔ Persistent foot or heel pain that doesn’t improve with rest.
✔ Swelling, redness, or warmth in the foot, which could indicate an infection.
✔ Thickened, discolored, or brittle toenails that may be a sign of fungal infection.
✔ Numbness or tingling in the feet, which could be related to diabetes or neuropathy.
At Lighthouse Foot and Ankle Center, we specialize in helping active adults stay mobile and pain-free. Let us help you keep up with your pet and life without foot pain.
Call us today at 207-774-0028.
By prioritizing your foot health, you’re ensuring that both you and your pet can enjoy many more happy, healthy years together.