We know that, for humans, it is important to maintain regular activities for the good health of mind and body. And with animals it is no different. In particular, walks for dogs are essential for them to expend energy, thus preventing them from leaving the house upside down.
When the high summer temperatures arrive, however, it is inevitable to worry about the kittens’ paws on the hot asphalt. But there are also those who disbelieve the possibility that they have a problem with excessive heat from the floor.
In this post, you will see that, yes, there are dangers when walking your dog in the summer, when the asphalt gets very hot. High temperatures can cause serious burns on the animal’s paws, bringing pain and discomfort.
Hence the importance of ensuring the pet’s safety so as not to deprive him of walking during the hottest months of the year. Check out the tips we’re going to share and have a good reading!
Contents
DOG PAW ANATOMY AND HOT ASPHALT
When looking at the underside of a dog’s paws, we see the raised areas on the toes (called pads), which feel more resistant than our hands and feet.
Although there is fat in the metacarpal pads (central part of the paw), which acts as a temperature insulator, dog paws are just as sensitive to high or low temperatures as our feet and hands.
If the necessary care is not taken in the summer, cats can suffer the following consequences:
- discomfort;
- dor;
- injuries;
- bubble formation;
- severe burns.
Therefore, the best way to prevent such consequences is through the temperature test, which can be done with the back of the hands, keeping them for a few seconds on the asphalt. If it’s not bearable for you, it certainly won’t be for your pet.
The same is valid for very low temperatures, ok? Do the test. If you don’t want to or can’t put the back of your hands, you can put the soles of your feet to check.
But as already said, you don’t have to stop taking him for a walk, just choose a time when he doesn’t have to have such harmful exposures.
Below are some tips that we have prepared to avoid worries for you and suffering for your pet.
When is it too hot for dogs paws?
If the outside air is pleasantly warm, you may think there’s no risk of burning your dog’s paws. But the ground can get much hotter than the surrounding air, and it absorbs heat quickly. The following table compares air and asphalt temperatures under similar conditions:
| Air temperature | Asphalt temperature |
| 25 °C / 77 °F | 52 °C / 125 °F |
| 31 °C / 87 °F | 62 °C / 143 °F |
| 35 °C / 95 °F | 65 °C / 149 °F |
PLAN THE TOUR TIME AND TIME
We already know that at some times the temperature is higher on hotter days and lower on colder days. Therefore, in summer, prefer to take the dogs for a walk before 9 am or after 5 pm (depending on the region, these times may vary). Anyway, better safe than sorry. A brief conference will help to make the most appropriate decision.
In winter , try to evaluate the weather services, to check the moments when the weather warms up, but without giving up the test.
Another detail, no less important, is the walking time that must be readjusted according to the characteristics of the little animal.
Have you noticed that your mood for long walks changes in the summer and your body seems to tire more quickly? At least for many people it is. With dogs the same happens. Not only are physical characteristics (such as short muzzles or long hair) important, their health status must also be taken into account.
USE OF SHOES AND OTHER ACCESSORIES FOR HOT ASPHALT
It is not recommended to force the use of shoes when dogs have difficulty adapting to the accessory. Some models, depending on the temperature, may melt.
It’s important to note that shoes create a barrier between the paws and the floor, which can also harm their walk.
It is possible to find some products that can be applied to the paws as a form of thermal protection and hydration. Consult a veterinarian to find out if use is suitable for your dog.
Some dogs, by legal determination, can only go outside with the use of a muzzle. In high temperatures, opt for models that allow him to open his mouth and lose heat.
Another way to help cool the pet is by leaving his toys cold. Store them in the fridge before giving them to your dog to play with.
HYDRATION AND REST
If the puppy takes less liquid than he needs, he may become dehydrated. That’s why it’s important to pay special attention to this point and encourage you to drink plenty of fresh water. Leave some pots with water spread out at strategic points and put ice cubes to keep them at a good temperature.
When the pet has panting, weakness, disorientation, very thirsty, among other characteristics that you do not perceive as common, take care of it immediately, because these are some signs that it needs to hydrate.
When walking with him, take several breaks and offer water. It is very important that he can rest more during the walk on hot days. So, take your time and enjoy your pet’s company. Depending on the time, take a little food to ensure his comfort.
CAR RIDES
When driving to more distant places, if you need to stop for some reason, do not leave the pet in the car, even if the windows are open, as the heat can reach very harmful levels for it and, depending on the severity, it can die quickly.
SUNSCREEN
Consult a veterinarian to ask for an indication of canine sunscreen. Never use it on its own, because it is necessary to check if the dog has any type of allergy and what would be most appropriate for him.
You should take care of your pet more often, especially Grooming Dogs because they love it
