Summer is here! The days are warmer and the nights are longer and this summer, has been HOT; record breaking hot. Even though the weather feels unpleasant for you, imagine having a fur coat you can’t take off.
Dogs can sweat but they only produce cooling sweat through Merocrine sweat glands located in their paws. So, their paws are extra sensitive when it comes to temperature and hot weather can turn the pavement into a stove. This can have a very harmful affect on dog paws, especially during dog walks.
Watch the Feet!
As your dogs’ paws touch the ground, their pads need to become used to the temperature of the surface. Provided it’s a nice cool day, this may not be a problem. But as the days get warmer, the pavements will begin to heat up. You will need to take some extra precautions as you take your dog out.
How Hot is Too Hot for Your Dog?
Before taking your dog out for a walk on a warm day, check the ground temperature. Simply touch the back of your hand to the pavement for at least seven seconds. If it’s painful to keep your hand there, you have your answer.
A little science
If the air temperature outside is in the 70s fahrenheit (21.1℃), the asphalt can be up to 125°F. At 80 ℉ (26.6 ℃) the asphalt can be around 143 degrees ℉ (61.6 ℃). Simply put, if the air temperature outside is getting warm, then the pavement is much hotter.
If your dog has sustained any type of burn on your feet, here’s how you can tell:
- Your dog is chewing or licking their feet
- They seem to have a limp or are trying to avoid walking
- Their pads look damaged
- They have some sort of blisters or redness on their paws
For more details, check out this study by Frostburg University from back in 2008. They showcase just how hot some rough surfaces can get!
Pet Care
If you believe your dog has been injured, take immediate steps to ensure its well-being. Here are a few quick ways you can administer some first aid:
- Bring them back inside right away. Pick them up and carry them if you need to.
- Flush the foot with cold water or use a cold compress.
- Try to prevent your dog from licking their injured paw.
- Consult your veterinarian.
Stay Cool
It’s important to keep cool on your daily walks. Here are a few tips to help your dog remain cool on these hot summer days:
- Give them some nice, cold water. Don’t forget, the water bowl itself can also warm up so add ice to help keep it cool. You can also consider purchasing a freezable dog bowl to keep their water nice and refreshing.
- Find some shade. Just as we humans love a nice shady spot under the trees, there’s no doubt your dog does too.
- Dive in! Taking your dog for a swim can allow the both of you to have some laps around the pool. Or splash water around and have fun; whatever floats your boat. Pun (fun) intended.
- Make your own breeze. Grab some portable fans to help the both of you cool off.
Safety First
Proper footwear is even more important when you have 4 feet. Consider some paw protecting shoes for your dog. They also have booties for multiple occasions and various needs (hiking, hardwood floors, etc). These shoes can be helpful for small dogs as well.
Keep in mind that not all dogs may be comfortable wearing shoes or may have difficulty adapting to them. They may attempt to remove them or chew on them to free their paws. Give them lots of opportunities to wear them and get used to them.
Traveling
If you have travel plans this summer, make sure no dog gets left behind! Pack some shoes, cold towels or clothing, and some frozen treats. Make sure to throw extra ice in the cooler and give your dog a chill way to stay cool.
Conclusion
Summer is heating up, and so is the ground you walk on. Make sure to protect your dog when taking them out for a walk. Rember, the hot pavement can be especially hard on your dogs’ paws. So, stay cool and enjoy the summer of 2023!