Summer brings longer days and more opportunities for outdoor walks with dogs. However, high temperatures can transform seemingly harmless surfaces into sources of intense heat, capable of causing discomfort and even burns to the animals’ paws.
Although paw pads are naturally resilient, contact with overheated pavements can cause painful injuries and compromise the mobility and well-being of the dog. Therefore, it is important to adapt daily habits during the hottest periods and to know the main warning signs.
“The risk does not depend solely on the air temperature. Surfaces such as asphalt, concrete, or sand can reach much higher temperatures and cause paw injuries in just a few minutes,” says Elena Díaz, veterinary doctor at Kivet, veterinary clinics of the Kiwoko, cited in a press release.
“With a few simple preventive measures, owners can significantly reduce this risk and ensure safer walks during the summer,” she concludes.
Avoid the hottest hours
During late morning and the afternoon, the ground can reach extremely high temperatures, especially in urban areas. Whenever possible, walks should take place in the early morning or at the end of the day, when surfaces are cooler. This change reduces the risk of burns and also helps prevent situations related to excessive heat.
Check the pavement temperature before the walk
Before leaving the house, it is advisable to assess the ground temperature. A simple method is to place the hand on the pavement for a few seconds. If it is too hot for a person, it may also be dangerous for the dog. This precaution is especially important on dark pavements, which absorb and retain more heat.
Choose shaded routes
Grassy areas, dirt paths, or wooded zones tend to maintain temperatures lower than concrete or asphalt exposed to the sun. Whenever possible, the owner should opt for these routes as this choice helps reduce heat exposure and provides greater comfort during the walk.
Use paw protection when necessary
On especially hot days or in places where there is no alternative to heated pavement, some products can help protect the paws. Dog boots and paw protectors specifically create an additional barrier between the paw pad and the hot surface, reducing the risk of injuries.
Inspect and moisturize the paws after the walk
After returning home, it is important to carefully observe the dog’s paws to identify signs of redness, irritation, cracks, or sensitivity. The application of paw pad–specific moisturizing balms helps keep the skin more resistant and protected during the months of greatest heat exposure.
Recognize the signs of a burn
Burns can manifest as difficulty walking and persistent licking of the paws, redness, blisters or pain when touched. In case of any suspected injury, the dog should be evaluated by a veterinarian to ensure appropriate treatment and prevent complications.
Seek veterinary attention if in doubt
Even when the signs seem mild, it is important not to underestimate changes in the paws after a walk on hot days. A veterinary evaluation allows confirming the existence of injuries, defining the most appropriate treatment and preventing problems that could compromise the animal’s comfort and mobility.
