05/07/2025
☀️ Hot Pavement Can Burn! Keep Your Pet’s Paws Safe This Summer 🐾
A warm summer day might feel perfect for a walk, but hot pavement can be painful—and even dangerous—for your pet. Surfaces like asphalt, concrete, and artificial turf can reach scorching temperatures, leading to burned paw pads, blisters, and discomfort.
Here are some simple ways to help protect your pet’s paws:
🐾 Do the “5-Second Test” – Place your hand or bare foot on the pavement for five seconds. If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for them.
🌳 Walk during cooler times – Stick to early mornings or late evenings when surfaces are cooler.
🌿 Choose soft or grassy paths – Grass and dirt are much gentler and cooler than pavement.
💧 Keep walks short midday – If you must go out during peak heat, keep it brief, bring water, and take frequent breaks.
🥿 Try dog booties or felt pads – These offer extra protection from hot surfaces (if your dog will tolerate them).
👀 Check paws regularly – After walks, inspect for redness, cracks, or blisters, and clean them to avoid infection.
🚨 Signs of burned paw pads: Limping, licking or chewing at feet, reluctance to walk, red or darkened pads, or visible blisters. If you see any of these, contact your veterinarian or emergency clinic immediately.
Bluewater Veterinary Emergency Clinic is here if you need us. 💙
