Hot Pavement, Hot Cars, Hot Dogs: Protect Those Paws with These 4 Summer Safety Tips for Dogs

by | Jun 1, 2021 | Pet Safety

During the summer, pavement, asphalt, wood, metal, sand, and vehicle surfaces can become extremely hot. These materials absorb the sun’s heat and can stay warm for hours after the sun has set. These surfaces can reach temperatures of more than 145 degrees Fahrenheit!

In the Dog Days of Summer, Here Are Some Tips to Keep Your Pet’s Paws Safe

  1. Before taking your dog for a stroll, check the temperature of the pavement. For 10 seconds, place your hand or bare foot on the surface. If you can’t keep your hand or foot on it because it’s too hot, it’s too hot for your pet.
  2. When outside in the summer heat, stay on grassy surfaces and avoid bare ground.
  3. The warmest portions of the day should be avoided. After the pavement has cooled down, walk early in the morning or late in the evening.
  4. Invest in a pair of booties to keep your dog’s paws from being burned by the heat.

Remember that after swimming, your dog’s paws may be more sensitive to hot surfaces. If you see any of these symptoms in your dog, such as limping, a lack of desire to move, a red or pink color change in the paw pads, licking or gnawing at the feet, missing sections of the pads, or blisters, take them to the veterinarian right away.

First-Aid Treatment for Burned Paws

If you fear your dog has burned paw pads, bring him inside as soon as possible. Carry your pet if required; flush the foot with cold water or apply a cold compress; and avoid allowing your dog to lick the wounded pad.

As quickly as possible, take your dog to the clinic since burns might become infected. Depending on the severity of the burn, your dog may require antibiotics or pain medicine. Other probable causes of the symptoms might also be ruled out by the veterinarian. Paw licking might sometimes indicate other issues, including allergies.

These summer safety tips for dogs will keep your pup safe and healthy this summer from the perils of scorching pavement. Summertime greetings! Have fun and be safe.