Effects of bandage configuration on paw pad pressure in dogs: a preliminary study

Seven bandage configurations were placed on the right forepaw of six English pointer dogs to evaluate the effects that configurations have on reducing pad pressure. The "clam shell" configuration resulted in less pressure being applied to all palmar pad surfaces. For the major weight-bearing pad, a basic paw bandage with an intermediate compressible foam sponge that had a hole under the major weight-bearing pad, combined with a metal splint paw cup under the sponge, resulted in a significantly lower pressure recording than for other bandage configurations. Digital pads 3 and 5 had the greatest pressure in a basic bandage configuration. Based on pressures on these pads, a basic paw bandage with an intermediate compressible foam sponge under the major weight-bearing pad, with or without a metal splint paw cup under the sponge, helped elevate the digits to relieve pressure on them. Placing a foam sponge pad, with or without a splint paw cup under the palmar paw surface, also provided less pressure on these pads.