With summer nearly here and the sun shining, it’s natural to want to get outside and enjoy the warm weather with your dog. However, while you might be prepared for the heat with sunscreen, water, and light clothing, there’s an often overlooked danger your dog faces: hot pavement. Many pet owners don’t realize just how harmful hot roads can be for a dog’s paws, leading to burns, blisters, and serious pain. Here we explore why hot roads are dangerous, how to protect your dog’s paws, and what to do if your dog gets burned.
On a hot day, bitumen can heat up to extreme temperatures that are unsafe for your dog’s paws. Asphalt, concrete, and sand absorb heat, and when temperatures climb, these surfaces can reach temperatures far higher than the air around them. For example, when it’s 85°F or 29°C outside, the pavement can be as hot as 135°F or 57°C—hot enough to cause burns in just seconds.
Dogs’ paw pads are tough, but they’re not invincible. Just like walking barefoot on a scorching surface would hurt you, it can be painful and damaging for your dog. Signs of burned paws include limping, licking their feet excessively, discoloration of the pads, blisters, or parts of the pad peeling off.
A quick and simple test to check if it’s safe for your dog to walk on the pavement is the “seven-second rule.” Place the back of your hand on the pavement. If you can’t hold it there comfortably for at least seven seconds, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws. If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s definitely too hot for your dog.
Tips to Protect Your Dog’s Paws
Walk During Cooler Hours: Plan walks early in the morning or later in the evening when the pavement has had a chance to cool down. Avoid the midday heat when surfaces are at their hottest.
Stick to Grass and Shaded Areas: Whenever possible, walk your dog on grass, dirt trails, or shaded paths. These surfaces are much cooler and gentler on your dog’s paws.
Consider Dog Booties or Paw Wax: Dog booties provide a barrier between your dog’s paws and the hot pavement. Paw wax can also help protect against minor burns and create a layer of insulation.
Keep Walks Short and Check Paws Regularly: On particularly hot days, keep walks brief and check your dog’s paws frequently for signs of discomfort or damage.
Hydrate and Rest: Make sure your dog stays hydrated and take breaks in the shade. Heat can be tough on dogs in general, and it’s important to look out for signs of overheating.
If you notice your dog limping, licking their paws excessively, or see signs of burned pads, it’s important to act quickly. Here’s what you can do:
Get Off the Hot Surface: Immediately move your dog to a cooler area, preferably grass or indoors.
Cool the Paws: Gently rinse the paws with cool (not cold) water. Avoid ice, as it can cause further damage.
Seek Veterinary Care: If the burns are severe or if your dog is in pain, visit your veterinarian as soon as possible. They can provide proper treatment and pain relief.
While summer adventures are fun, it’s crucial to keep in mind the hidden dangers hot pavement poses for your dog’s paws. By taking a few simple precautions, you can keep your furry friend safe and ensure they enjoy the warm weather without the risk of painful burns. Always be mindful of where and when you walk your dog during hot days, and remember that their paws are more sensitive than you might think. A little extra care can go a long way in protecting your dog from unnecessary pain and injury.
If you need help training your dog, to make your walks more comfortable, please contact Good Dog Training. Make walks fun in any weather.
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