Summer heat can be a real danger for dogs. Paw burns are one of our four-legged friends' most frequent and often underestimated issues. Dogs, unlike humans, do not wear shoes, which can pose a significant risk when high temperatures overheat surfaces such as asphalt, concrete, or sand. Although the paw pads are resilient, sometimes they can do very little against the heat. So, how can we prevent and treat paw burns?
Dogs are more at risk.
First of all, it’s important to understand which pets are most at risk. Monitor dogs who spend a lot of time outdoors, regardless of breed. This requires common sense: avoid walking or staying outdoors during the hottest hours, and if temperatures exceed 30 degrees Celsius, go out only during the cooler hours (early morning or evening). This applies even more to house dogs: the pads of our pets, who spend most of their time indoors, are less resistant and more prone to burns.
How can we prevent paw burns in dogs?
Besides using common sense, it’s always a beneficial idea to keep your dog hydrated with fresh, clean water. In summer, it’s important to change the water frequently. This precaution also helps prevent heat strokes, especially during walks. Another tip is to test the outdoor temperature before going out: just touch the asphalt (or sand) with the palm of your hand before taking your dog for a walk. In this manner, you can accurately gauge the temperature that your bare feet would experience. There are also specific protections for paw pads: first and foremost, special dog shoes are available on the market. However, some dogs may not be accustomed to wearing them, making it challenging to persuade them to do so during the summer months. Alternatively, you can use special protective creams.
Symptoms of burns
How do we know if our dog has burned paws despite prevention efforts? Obviously, the first to show us will be our friend; they might whine or limp while walking, even after the walk. They might also spend a lot of time licking their feet. In such cases, a quick visual check will suffice: burned paws often appear red and worn. Naturally, it's best to consult a vet, but to ease the pet’s pain, we can wash their paws with fresh water and mild soap. Also, cover the paws to prevent the dog from licking or biting them. And needless to say, our dog deserves some rest to fully recover from the burn!
More: Dog Health
