Although dog’s paws may appear tough and hard, they are as sensitive as human feet. “Dogs can suffer burns to their paws on days most dog owners wouldn’t consider exceedingly hot” warns Dr. Alison Mason, a veterinarian and medical director at Hope Animal Hospital in Brooklyn.
Paw burns from hot surfaces like pavement, asphalt and sand are the most common reason dog owners visit the Vet every summer and most owners don’t realize that these burns can leave lasting and permanent damage to paw tissue.
VetsNow warns that artificial grass can also get dangerously hot because it contains black crumb rubber from recycled tires. Other artificial surfaces like running tracks and tennis courts can also reach scalding temperatures in the summer sun
Veterinarians suggest testing the pavement with your hand for about 7 seconds. If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your pooch to walk unprotected. The outside temperature doesn’t even need to be sweltering for your pet’s paws to burn. On a day when the mercury is 77F (25C) with low humidity, the pavement can reach an astonishing 125F (51 C).
If you see your dog holding up its feet, limping during walks or licking, chewing its paws after a walk on a hot day, seek medical attention.
Treatment for paw pad burns can be long and arduous, usually requiring bandages on the feet and administration of antibiotics to prevent infection from occurring while you wait for several layers of tissue to regrow.
What can you do to protect your dog’s paws from burns?
Aside from taking walks in the evening or not walking your dog at all, one simple solution is to use lightweight, breathable dog boots. Make sure any boots are specifically designed for warm weather, like Poochy Pawz City Shoes™ These summer boots were designed with moisture wicking fabrics, mesh panels for ventilation and natural cooling, and a heat resistant sole. The “Barely There” sole is flexible to allow your dog to feel the terrain and walk naturally.
PETA Vice President, Karen Porreca commented
“PoochyPawz is a dog’s best friend! Most people don’t realize how easily dogs’ paws can get seriously burned on hot pavement and other surfaces in warm weather, but these breathable, lightweight, non-slip canine booties are the perfect solution.”
We all want to enjoy the summer months with our fur companions, so ensure that your dog is as protected as you are. Bring water for hydration, don’t over exercise in the heat, and wear protective paw or foot gear. In the heat protect their feet!!
