Protecting Your Dogs Paws in the Summer

Have you noticed your dog preferring to walk in the grass instead of the pavement during the summer? It’s probably because the payment is too hot for their paw pads! As the weather gets hotter, the pavement and concrete can heat up, hurting your pup’s paws. Read on to learn how to protect your dog’s paws this summer.

 How Hot is Too Hot?

According to veterinarians, too-hot pavement can burn or blister your dog’s paw pads. When it gets 85 degrees or higher, steer clear from walking your dogs on payment. According to the Journal of the American Medical Assicataiton, when the air temperature is around 86 degrees, the payment temperature is around 130 degrees. Using your hand is a good way to measure if the payment is too hot for your pooch. Place your hand palm down on the asphalt. If you cannot keep your hand comfortably on the ground for more than 10 seconds, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.

Paw Protection

Canine pads need to get used to weather, texture, and stress. To condition Fido’s feet, take them on regular walks on the pavement in cooler weather. Moisturizing products can also help your pooch’s paw pads in the heat, as dry pads can cause cracking due to heat and other conditions. Dog shoes can offer protection from hot asphalt and other terrains. However, many pups need time to adjust to wearing these booties. Ensure these booties are well-fitting, and let your pup’s paws breathe. If you need to take your dog out when it’s hot out, avoid mid-afternoon, the hottest time of the day. Stick to grass while walking to keep your pup’s paws off the pavement.

Your pup’s paws are one of the most sensitive parts of your pup’s body. Keeping them protected and healthy is very important, especially during the hot summer months.