Options for Extensive Footpad Injuries

Structure and Function
All animals possess a highly specialised foot cushion at the end of their limb to 1) provide cushioning against biomechanical forces during weight bearing; 2) to provide traction and resistance to aid braking and propulsion; and 3) to provide a robust surface against the effects of abrasion and environmental trauma. In many animals, the vascular arrangement of the footpad is also thought to provide an effective counter-current heat exchange system to prevent heat loss and reduce the risk of frostbite in cold conditions.

The dog and cat have pads at the tips of each digit (digital pad) and a larger tri-lobed pad at the base of the foot (metacarpal and metatarsal pad). The forelimb also has a small non-weight bearing pad that covers the superficial tip of the accessory carpal bone (the carpal pad).

Causes of injury
Pads are prone to a variety of injuries. Most incisions or lacerations due to sharp surfaces do not threaten the viability of the overall pad, and only rarely are there concomitant injuries to other paw structures. Contamination of the wound is common, so healing can sometimes be prolonged. Consequently, deep lacerations are prone to more complications and delayed healing.

Extensive loss of pad tissue usually occurs in association with extensive abrasive or ischaemic injuries to the leg including road traffic accidents, bandage complications, frostbite, necrotising venomous bites and leg traps. Pads may also need to be sacrificed as part of tumour excision.  [...]