Cats don’t get the luxury of wearing shoes like humans do—nor would they want to! Our feline friends use their nimble paws and claws to walk, run, climb and leap around the home and find their delicate footing. Unfortunately, their paws’ exposure to indoor and outdoor hazards leaves them vulnerable to wounds and infections.

As the weather shifts from fall to winter and snow begins to cover the ground, one thing dog owners will need to be wary of is dry or cracked paw pads. Dry air, freezing-cold ice and salt or other de-icers can wreak havoc on your pup’s paws during winter walks, eventually leading to painful cracks and even infections.

When the sun is shining overhead and the temperature is balmy, you may be itching to get out and take your pup for a walk. But while we wear shoes to protect our feet, we must be mindful that our dogs don’t get the same luxury.