It’s essential to protect a dog’s paws during hot weather because the pads on their paws can be easily damaged by hot surfaces like pavement and concrete. Dogs’ paw pads are made up of thick, durable skin that helps to protect their paws from injury and abrasion. However, this skin can quickly become damaged by hot surfaces, leading to painful burns and injuries.
During hot weather, the temperature of asphalt and concrete surfaces can reach very high temperatures, which can quickly cause a dog’s paw pads to burn and blister. These burns can be painful and can take several weeks to heal, during which time the dog may be in discomfort and unable to walk properly. In severe cases, burns can lead to permanent damage to the paw pads and cause long-term mobility issues.
To protect your dog’s paw pads during hot weather, it’s essential to take a few precautions when walking them. You can do this by:
- Walking your dog during cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late evening, when the pavement is not as hot.
- Avoiding hot surfaces like pavement or concrete altogether, and sticking to grass or dirt paths.
- Testing the pavement before walking your dog by placing your hand on it for a few seconds. If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.
- Using protective gear like booties or paw wax to help protect your dog’s paw pads from hot surfaces.
By taking these precautions, you can help protect your dog’s paw pads from injury and ensure they can enjoy their walks without pain or discomfort. If you notice any signs of injury or discomfort in your dog’s paws, such as limping, licking their paws excessively, or refusing to walk, contact your veterinarian for further advice. We at Smith Farms Kennels love your furry family members, and want to help you keep them healthy and safe!
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