[UC] Question for other dog companion-people

[Krfapt]

The stuff people use for ice and snow on their sidewalks -- the white round things more than the salt crystals -- seems to cause pain on canine paws (thermal? mechanical?). I noticed several people with limping dogs during the day today. And I know it happens with mine. I usually stop and brush off the bottom of the paws when this happens.   I have a set of dog boots -- enough for one but not both dogs but it doesn't matter because the remedy seems as distasteful to them as the pain.   Any suggestions? Does anyone know if any of these snow melting products actually more or less problematic than others? And, if so, would some kind of awareness campaign help?   Always at your service and ready for a dialog, Al Krigman   PS: We use salt crystals because I think they're less harmful to pets and also to the environment, but I have no data showing whether this is a valid assumption.