3 tips to protect your pet’s paw pads from burns

Summer is finally here! With the sun blazing outside, pet parents are bound to feel the urge to head outdoors and enjoy some fun in the sun with their furry companions. But it’s all too common to spend a whole day out only to discover that your pet’s paw pads have been burned. So how can you prevent paw pad burns?

1. Test the surface with your hand

Even though the air temperature might read around 30°C, heat-absorbing surfaces can become scorching hot — asphalt and wooden decking, for example, can easily reach temperatures of 50°C or higher. If your pet’s paw pads make contact with surfaces that hot, there’s a very high chance of burns and peeling.

To prevent this, before letting your pet walk on asphalt or wooden surfaces, press the back of your hand against the ground for five seconds. If you can hold it there comfortably without it feeling hot, the risk of your pet’s paws getting burned is low. If the surface feels even slightly warm, consider putting booties on your pet to avoid direct contact with the ground.

2. Choose cooler times of day

Try taking your pet out during the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or dusk. The weather is much milder than at midday or in the afternoon, and temperatures are lower — making these the ideal times for a walk or a bathroom break outside. On top of that, think about where you’re walking. On hot days, opt for routes with more grass and greenery, and when you can’t avoid asphalt, take a detour or carry your pet across to safety.

3. Watch for signs of burns

Even when you’ve timed your outing carefully and taken every precaution, your pet’s paw pads can still get burned. In that case, the most important thing is to catch the signs early before the injury gets worse. During walks, watch for your pet becoming reluctant to walk or frequently licking their paws — both are signs that their feet may be uncomfortable. After getting home, check your pet’s paw pads carefully for blisters, redness, or any cuts or breaks in the skin. Regular checks are key to keeping your pet safe! If you notice any signs of a possible burn, apply a cold compress right away.

With the summer heat in full force, there’s a lot for pet parents to keep in mind. If you want to make sure every little detail is taken care of, consider hiring a professional pet sitter to help with dog walking — let the experts handle the small stuff so your furry friend can have a great time without getting hurt!

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