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Most dog owners love taking their dogs along for walks during the summer to enjoy the warm weather. However, most of them forget that as summer temperatures begin to rise, so does the temperature of the pavement. This makes it very dangerous for dog paws and can have some painful consequences. As a result, it's important that pet owners protect their pet’s paws from these hot walking surfaces.
Here are some safety tips you can apply to prevent your dog from being burned this summer.
5 Second Hand Test
The most obvious way of protecting your dog’s paws from getting burnt is by walking them in cool places. As a basic rule put the back of your hand on the walkway, and if you can't hold it for 5-seconds, the pavement's too hot for your pup's feet. Walk your dog in shady areas or on grass when it's too hot.
Timing Is Key
During certain times of the day, pavements can get very hot. A better idea is to walk your dog during the coolest hours of the day such as in the morning or late in the evening.
Dog Boots and Paw Socks
If it's impossible to avoid the hot pavements, consider investing in a pair of dog boots or paw socks. These boots and socks can protect your dog’s paw pads from getting burnt or other potential injuries. However, the dog may have difficulties walking in them and exhibit a funny walking style. If they become uncomfortable, he may start chewing on them.
Moisturize Your Pup’s Paws
Your pup’s paws are naturally tough, however, due to frequent walks; the paws may become cracked and susceptible to collecting dirt and debris that can cause injury or infection. You can moisturize your pup’s paws with coconut oil on a daily basis can help prevent cracking, peeling, and minor injuries.
Keep the Hairs and Nails Trimmed
Trimming the hair between the toes and the main paw pad can help in preventing sand, twigs, and other debris from being lodged in these areas. Conversely, overgrown nails can curl under and grow into the pad of the paw causing pain and bleeding. Take your pup to your vet to have the hair and nails trimmed regularly.
Paw injury symptoms include, blisters, bleeding, limping, lifting the injured paw off the ground, excessive paw licking, and paw discoloration. If your pup is showing any of these symptoms, please visit your vet.
Meet The Author
Canine Specialist & Writer
Grant is an award-winning writer for SitStay with a passion for pets and especially dogs! Grant loves writing about furry little goofballs and aims to educate pet parents about anything and everything regarding their dogs.
