As fall approaches, many of us eagerly anticipate the crisp, cool mornings and refreshing evenings that come with the change in season. The gradual dip in temperatures makes outdoor activities with our pets more enjoyable, but don’t be fooled by the cooler start and end to the day. During midday, temperatures can still climb into the high 90s, and with the Texas heat index, they may even feel like 110 degrees. This lingering heat has significant implications, particularly when it comes to keeping our dog’s paws safe from scorching surfaces.
The change in seasons can be deceptive, leading many dog owners to assume that the cooler air means it’s safe to take their pets on longer walks or let them roam freely on pavement and sidewalks. However, while the air may feel cooler, surfaces like asphalt, concrete, and sand can retain heat long after the sun has risen, posing a serious risk to your dog’s paw pads.
Understanding the Risks: How Hot Pavement Affects Your Dog
Pavement absorbs heat from the sun throughout the day, and even when the air temperature feels pleasant, the ground can be dangerously hot. According to veterinary experts, when the air temperature is just 77°F, asphalt in direct sunlight can reach a scorching 125°F. At 87°F, the pavement can heat up to 143°F, and when the temperature reaches 95°F, the ground can hit a blistering 154°F. At these temperatures, a dog’s paws can sustain serious burns within seconds.
Dr. Jerry Klein, the Chief Veterinary Officer of the American Kennel Club (AKC), emphasizes the severity of this risk: “Pavement, asphalt, and sand can get very hot, very quickly. The paw pads are sensitive and can easily burn, causing pain and discomfort. In severe cases, dogs can develop blisters, infections, and even suffer from heatstroke.”
Symptoms of Burned Paws: What to Look Out For
As a responsible dog owner, it’s crucial to recognize the signs of burned paws so you can act quickly if your pet is affected. Symptoms of burned paw pads include:
- Limping or refusing to walk
- Licking or chewing at their feet
- Discoloration of the paw pads (they may appear darker than usual)
- Visible blisters or redness
- Whimpering or showing signs of discomfort when walking
If you notice any of these symptoms, take immediate action. Move your dog to a cool, shaded area and examine their paws. If the burns are severe, seek veterinary care right away. For minor burns, you can gently clean the area with cool water and apply an antibiotic ointment. Keep your dog off hot surfaces until the paws have fully healed.
Preventing Paw Burns: Tips for Dog Walking All Year Around
To protect your dog from the dangers of hot pavement, follow these tips:
Walk During Cooler Hours
To minimize the risk of paw burns, schedule your dog walks for the cooler parts of the day—early in the morning or later in the evening when the pavement has had time to cool off. According to Dr. Sarah Wooten, a veterinary expert & influencer, “Walking your dog before 8 AM or after 8 PM is the safest way to avoid the hottest part of the day and protect your dog’s paws.”
Test the Pavement Temperature
Before heading out for a walk, perform the “seven-second test” to check if the pavement is too hot for your dog. Simply press the back of your hand against the pavement for seven seconds. If it’s too hot for you to keep your hand there, it’s too hot for your dog to walk on.
Use Protective Gear
Consider investing in protective gear like dog booties or paw wax to provide an extra layer of protection for your dog’s paws. Dog booties act as a barrier between your dog’s paws and the hot surface, while paw wax can help prevent burns by moisturizing and protecting the pads. Make sure the booties fit properly and are comfortable for your dog to wear during walks.
Stick to Grassy Areas
Whenever possible, opt for grassy or shaded areas for your walks instead of asphalt or concrete. Grass remains significantly cooler than pavement and is much gentler on your dog’s paws. If you’re in an urban area with limited green space, try to find parks or shaded paths to keep your dog safe.
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Keep Hydrated
Just like humans, dogs need to stay hydrated, especially in warm weather. Carry a portable water bowl and fresh water on your walks and take frequent breaks in the shade to keep your dog cool and hydrated. Dehydration can exacerbate the effects of heat on your dog, leading to heatstroke, which is a medical emergency and needs to be addressed by a veterinary professional asap.
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Heatstroke: A Hidden Danger of Fall Walks
While we often associate heatstroke with the peak of summer, it remains a threat during the fall, particularly on hotter days. Dogs are more susceptible to heatstroke because they don’t sweat like humans do; instead, they pant to regulate their body temperature. On extremely hot days, panting may not be enough to cool them down, especially if they’re walking on hot surfaces.
According to Dr. Karen Becker, a veterinarian and pet health expert, “Heatstroke is a life-threatening condition that can occur in as little as 15 minutes. Signs include excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, confusion, and in severe cases, collapse.” If you suspect your dog is suffering from heatstroke, move them to a cool area immediately, offer water, and seek emergency veterinary care.
Conclusion
Fall is a wonderful time to enjoy the outdoors with your dog, but it’s important to remain vigilant about the risks that come with lingering heat. By understanding the dangers of hot pavement and taking proactive measures to protect your dog’s paws, you can ensure that your pet stays safe and comfortable throughout the season. Always prioritize walking during cooler hours, use protective gear, and be aware of the signs of paw burns and heatstroke.
At Backyard Pet Services, our pet walking staff is specially trained to recognize the signs of heat-related stress and paw burns in dogs. Our walkers are well-versed in how to keep your furry friends safe during midday walks, ensuring that your dog is always in the best hands. With these precautions in place, both you and your furry friend can make the most of this beautiful time of year—without any burnt paws!
