Greyhounds And Corns

Greyhounds frequently get corns and no one really understand why.

Greyhounds and Corns

Greyhounds frequently get corns and no one really understands why.

There are 2 theories. The first is that they are related to greyhound racing and the weight they put on some of their pads more than others. But there have been cases where non racing dogs have developed corns on each pad. The other theory is that the corns are a result of a virus. Whatever the reason is for your dog developing corns, the problem and the cures are the same.

Treatment for Greyhound Corns.

There are various methods to remove corns and surgery should be a last resort.  Hulling corns is often recommended by vets but corns can and do grow back.  Some non evasive methods of removing corns are as follows:

  • Lots of people have experienced good results with homeopathic medicine.  Indeed one of our KGR dogs was greatly helped using Lori Rose on his 8 corns – she dispenses both homeopathic tablets and an ointment to massage into the pad.   http://www.lorirosehomeopathy.com/  
  • Burts Bees balm is also good to use on the pads – gently rub it into the affected area.  
  • Bizarrely gaffa tape also works – but just the silver one. You need to place a piece on the corn and leave for around 6 days.  When removed gently file down the corn.  
  • Finally try an epsom salts soak for 10 minutes twice a day.  
  • All of the above ultimately soften the pad which helps the corns.  

Lazer Treatment?

A new treatment is now being used with good results.  The vet uses a laser to “kill off” the corn.   We are not sure which vets offer this treatment.

If you dog cannot walk then try Therapaws Boots.

We are unable to give specific advice over the phone unless you adopted your dog from us.  You do need to refer any queries to your vet.

There are also greyhound corn specific facebook pages which offer advice, including in relation to a technique called Flexor Tenotomy.  You will find lots of people on the pages, who have lots of different advice.  Please remember to also consult your vet.

There seem to be no logical reason for corns and why some treatments work for some dogs and not others.  You will need to be patient and keep with whichever treatment you have chosen.

Our Online Shop.

Everyone at Kent Greyhound Rescue is a volunteer and we get no funding from the racing industry.  Our online shop helps us to pay our enormous annual vet and kennel bills.  We sell everything you could need for your greyhound, lurcher or whippet.

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