Many dog owners take their furry friends on walks to enjoy the warm summer weather with them, but often times they forget about one important detail: hot pavement can and will burn a dog’s paws. While it can be tempting to bring your dog everywhere you go, it can cause serious harm to your beloved pet if you are not careful. Keep in mind that if asphalt and cement can get hot enough to cook an egg during the summer or it feels way too hot for you to leave your hands comfortably on the ground for at least 10 seconds, it can result in nasty burns on your dog’s paw pads, especially if your have a new puppy with tender young paws. Fortunately, there are a few ways you can protect your dog from getting burned this summer.
Avoid Hot Asphalt and Concrete
One of the most obvious and easiest ways to avoid burnt paw pads is by avoiding hot surfaces all together. Try walking your dog in a grassy area or somewhere that’s shady. You can also consider walking on these surfaces when it’s cooler outside, like in the morning or evening. Avoid walking your pet in the afternoon when the sun is high in the sky or early evening, because the pavement will be hot.
Consider Dog Boots
If you can’t avoid the hot concrete completely, you might want to consider investing in a pair of dog boots. There are numerous different brands of dog boots all with different features available.
Moisturize Your Dog’s Paws
To help prevent injuries like cuts, cracking or peeling of your dog’s paws, consider moisturizing his or her feet daily. Minor injuries can make your dog’s paws more susceptible to burns and other serious problems. There are many brands of moisturizing paw pad creams on the market that can work wonders.
Use Paw Wax
Paw wax can easily be rubbed onto your pet’s paw pads to protect them from harmful surfaces. It is designed to protect your dog’s feet from hot surfaces and potentially harmful chemicals like road salts. Paw wax can be especially useful if you got out with your dog frequently. It’s a great solution anytime your dog needs some extra paw protection.
Wash and Check Paws Carefully
Make sure to check your dog’s paw pads daily for any signs of damage and wash his paws frequently. If you believe there is a problem with your pet’s paws, be sure to contact your veterinarian. If your wash and moisturize the paws at the same time you check his paws, you’re doing multiple things to help protect your dog’s paws at once which can save time and your beloved pet’s paws as well!
These are just a few tips to help protect your dog’s paws from the hot concrete this summer. For more information or if you believe your dog’s feet have been burned, don’t hesitate to contact us here at All Pets Veterinary Medical Center with the link below!
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