Stand on the hot pavement barefoot for seven seconds. It hurts a LOT, right? Now, imagine going on walks and playing on the asphalt barefoot ALL DAY. That's the average summer experience for your beloved pup.
As summer kicks off and temperatures rise, it's important to protect your dog's feet just like you would your own. If it's too hot for your feet, it's too hot for their paws.
What Are The Signs Of Burnt Paws?
Check your dog’s paws immediately if they spent time on hot surfaces. Look for:
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Limping or struggling to walk
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Licking or chewing their feet
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Pads are darker in color than usual
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Red, swollen, or blistered paws
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Missing pieces from the paw pad
How Can I Prevent Burnt Paws?
Keep your pup's feet safe all season by following these tips:
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Test the heat of a pavement by pressing your palm to the pavement for seven seconds and see if it’s safe for your dog to walk on.
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Use dog boots as a barrier between their paws and the ground.
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Walk your dog in the early morning or late evening.
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Apply paw wax pre-walk to shield paws against burns and to prevent cracking from heat. It can also be applied year-round to protect from ice and chemicals.
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Choose grassy or shady areas for walks.
Treatment & Care For Burnt Paws
Burns can happen fast; sometimes, faster than you can even realize. Prepare for the worst with these steps:
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Retreat indoors: Bring your dog inside quickly. Carry them if necessary.
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Cool the paws: Rinse them under cool, gently running water or apply a cold compress for 10 to 15 minutes. Having a water source prepared on your walks is great for hydration in the summer heat, too.
- Speak to a vet: Burns can easily become infected if untreated. It is important to consult with a vet if you think your pup's paws have been burned even just slightly.
Tips To Remember
Here are a few general guidelines to protect your dog's paws during the summer heat:
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Asphalt, Sand, & Turf: Hot surfaces include more than just pavement. Be careful of hot beach sand and artificial grass.
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Post-Swim Sensitivity: Dog paws are more sensitive to hot surfaces after swimming or being in the water.
- Avoid The Afternoon: Pavement is typically hottest in the late afternoon between 3:00 PM and 5:00 PM. Avoid walking your dog specifically during this time frame.
Hot pavement and surfaces can easily burn, blister, and cause long-term damage to your dog's paws. Always schedule walks during cooler hours, use protective gear, and know how to treat burnt paws. Protection starts with knowledge, and now, you know how to protect your dog's paws!