Always Do This One Thing Before You Walk Your Dog!

This summer, exercise extra caution to avoid walking your dog when it’s too hot outside!

Editor’s Note: If you believe your pet is sick or injured, contact your veterinarian or proceed to the nearest emergency vet immediately. 

Have you ever walked barefoot on hot concrete or asphalt and burned your feet? It can be quite painful! And we’re probably all familiar with that mad dash from the pool to our sandals on a warm summer day. But we aren’t the only ones who can burn our feet when it’s hot outside. Our dogs can burn their paws, too! 

Sometimes, pet owners don’t realize when it’s too hot outside for dogs to safely go for a walk. Unfortunately, this mistake can cause your dog a lot of pain. If you think your dog may have burned his paws, you’ll want to look for signs like limping, redness, and blisters. Your dog’s paw pads may also appear darker than normal or your dog may try to lick or chew his feet a lot. 

You can save your dog a lot of pain and suffering if you make sure to only walk him in safe conditions. Generally, pet owners should be wary of walks when the temperature reaches around 75 degrees Fahrenheit, especially if you’ll be walking on the pavement. When the weather gets really hot in the 80s or 90s, the concrete and asphalt your pet may be walking on can reach temperatures of 150 degrees Fahrenheit. Ouch! 

If you’re not sure if it’s too hot to walk your dog or not, we have a simple test you can try. Place the back of your hand on the concrete before your start your walk. If you can’t hold it there comfortably for at least 5-10 seconds, then it is too hot to walk your dog. Especially during the dog days of summer, you should do this before every walk. 

Just like concrete and asphalt, keep in mind that sand can also get hot enough to do some serious damage. If your dog will be joining you for beach days, you’ll need to keep a close eye on his paws for burn symptoms like blisters and swelling, as well as for cuts that may come from walking on shells and broken glass. Avoid having your dog walk on the hot sand during the warmest parts of the day as much as possible. 

The best way to avoid possible burns is simple: Just don’t go for a walk during the hottest part of the day. During summer, many pet owners rearrange their schedules to walk their dog first thing in the morning or in the evening. Not only is it more comfortable for your dog, but it should be a more pleasant experience for you as well. If you have to venture out with your dog in extreme temps, do your best to stay in the shade and walk in grassy areas that won’t be as hot as other surfaces. You can also invest in dog booties that will protect your pup’s paws from burns and other environmental dangers. Happy walking! 

Pawz

Pawz Waterproof Dog Boots, 12 count

These dog boots are biodegradable, reusable, and come in packs of 12 so you always have a spare pair handy. All you have to do is slide on the booties and your dog’s paws will be protected from heat, ice, snow, salt, and lawn chemicals you may encounter on your walk. 

$13+ (On Sale!)

Buy Now!

PK.ZTopia

Waterproof Dog Boots

These waterproof dog boots are a great deal! Suitable for all types of terrain, they can even be worn on the sand during beach days. 

$22

Buy Now!

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