Almost everyone has experienced the unpleasant sensation of standing on a very hot road. How many of us realize the road can be just as dangerous and painful for our dogs?
If you are still sure if the pavement is too hot press your bare
hands or feet on sunny pavement for at least 7-8 seconds to assess heat
level. If it is uncomfortable for you, then it is too hot for your dog.
Remember that the air temperature is NOT an accurate reflection of ground temperature at all! Asphalt and other ground surfaces retain heat and this temperature rises exponentially as heat and sun exposure continues. See the above image for temperature correlations.
The signs that a dog has burned pads are limping, refusing to walk, darker than usual pads, blisters, redness, missing parts of the pad, or licking and chewing the foot.
If your dog experiences any of these symptoms immediately flush the injured paw with cool water and take him to the veterinarian who will then determine if he needs antibiotics and/or pain medication.
To avoid the dangers of asphalt please walk your dog in shady spots, on the grass, dirt, or gravel.
Please be mindful of the effect of heat on your dog's paws and please pass this post along to anyone who could use a reminder! Thank you!
Our walking is very limited here in AZ - only if you can get out super early (and I'm talking at 5am on the dot) or find a clear trail somewhere. Evening walks are out, simply because of how long the asphalt and cement can hold heat. Even in the morning I try to add a pass thru a green belt, just so they can walk on something else for a bit.
ReplyDeleteMonty and Harlow
I never take my dogs out on asphalt in this weather for exactly this reason. Even when we walk in the evening I double check with the back of my hand to be sure it won't be hot.
ReplyDeleteMom carries us a lot because we either walk fast or I jump. This is a very important message
ReplyDeleteSnorts,
Lily & Edward