Reminder: Asphalt can Burn Pet Paws on Hot Days

Vets say on a 90-degree day, the temperature of the pavement can reach 150 degrees.

Vet tech Julia Armstrong explains, “Dogs have a little footpad like our palms that is all very tender skin. It’s meant to be walked on, but it’s not meant to be on sizzling hot ground.”

One tip Armstrong offered is to first touch the sidewalk with the back of your own hand.

“If that is uncomfortable to you, that is really uncomfortable to your dog’s tender, little paws,” Armstrong said.

A few tips for keeping your dog safe:

Walk Your Dog When It’s Cool
This is probably an obvious tip but one that folks sometimes don’t consider enough. It’s a great idea to take your dog out on daily walks, but be mindful of when and where you walk him. The best time to walk your dog is in the morning or late evening, when the pavement is cool. Avoid walking your dog in the afternoon when the sun is high in the sky or early evening, because the pavement will be hot.

Stay On The Grass
If you end up taking your dog out during the warmer times of the day, be sure to stay on the grass and stick to shady areas. Stay away from sidewalks or any paved areas to avoid burning. A shady park can be a great place to take your dog on a warm afternoon.

Be sure to check your dog’s paw pads daily for any signs of damage and wash his paws frequently. If you do happen to see a problem, or if your dog is acting strangely on his feet, be sure to have him taken to the vet to see how bad the injury is. If you wash and moisturize his paws at the same time you check his paws, you’re doing three things to help protect your dog’s paws at once. Saving time…and saving paws!