Summertime can be the best! With longer days and the kiddos out of school, summer offers endless opportunities for fun. Although you may want to take your furry friend outside frequently, it is important to consider how the hotter temperatures may affect them. Under the summer sun, pavement and asphalt can reach dangerous temperatures for a dog’s paws. Just like how we put on sunscreen and stay in the shade, there are precautions you can take to protect your pup, too!

How to Check for Burned Paws

Burned paws occur when a surface is too hot for paws, causing burns and blisters. This can be dangerous if left untreated, as burns can easily become infected. If you’re concerned your pup may have burned their paws on a walk, these are some of the signs to look for:

• Limping or hopping
• Avoiding walking
• Licking or chewing feet
• Red, raw, or blistered pads

Any combination of these symptoms indicates burned paws. If this is the case, take your canine to the vet immediately. Consulting your vet ensures professional treatment and a quicker recovery.

Steps to Protect Your Dog’s Paws

These are some of the best preventative steps to keep your dog’s paws safe and healthy:

1. Avoid hot surfaces. A great rule of thumb for checking if the pavement is too hot is to place your hand on the surface: if it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your dog. Surfaces that are known for absorbing heat include concrete, asphalt, pavement, and metal.
2. Don’t go outside midday. The longer the sun is out, the hotter the pavement will get. That’s why the best time to walk your canine companion during the hotter months is first thing in the morning. When the ground has time to cool down overnight, it makes the surface safer for your furry friend’s paws. If the mornings do not work for you, evening strolls when the sun is setting work too.
3. Check your dog’s paws after a walk. Don’t let cracked or blistered paws go unchecked. Closely examine your pup’s paws for dark spots, redness, or peeling skin after any time outside. This routine can catch any discomfort before it escalates.
4. Invest in dog boots. If you take your canine on walks often, dog boots can be a fantastic way to keep your pup’s paws safe and comfortable. Dog boots are designed to create a comfortable barrier between the ground and your furry friend’s paw pads.

How to Choose the Right Dog Boots

Who says dogs can’t have footwear? Dog boots provide protection against paw burns in the hotter months and against cuts from rocky surfaces year-round. The key attributes to look for in dog boots are lightweight material, adjustable straps, and non-slip bottoms. Boots that are too loose can come off and cause annoyance, whereas boots that are too tight can cause extreme discomfort. It is best to measure your dog’s paws before you purchase boots to ensure they are the right size. After you purchase a pair, put them on your furry friend for a few hours before you go for a walk. This will allow them to adjust to the new item before use.

Your dog needs protection from the sun just like you do! Protecting their paws protects their health and comfort. With consideration and care, your pup will be ready to face the warmer months ahead.