Sensitive paws – Protect the pads of your dog’s feet in the summer heat

Protecting pads while walking your dog

Imagine you’re walking on the pavement with bare feet – is it too hot for you? It’s probably too hot for your dog too. It’s common to think dog’s feet are tough, so they won’t be affected by heat, but this isn’t true. The pads of dogs feet can actually burn easily on hot days and scorching hot asphalt, cement, or other surfaces.

Signs of burnt pads can include:

• Limping, licking or chewing feet
• Refusing to walk
• Missing part of pad
• Blisters or redness

If you see any symptoms like this, contact your veterinarian immediately.

When your dog’s on a leash, they’re relying on you to guide and protect them, so they won’t let you know if they’re hurting.  Don’t let them down!

Walk them on the cool side of the street where there’s shade, or grass, to cool down the surface. Consider going for your longer walks only in the early morning or evening, when you can guarantee it won’t be too hot for your pet.

Get involved: No Excuses. No Hot Pets

And remember, there’s never an excuse for leaving a pet in a vehicle unattended. Call 1-833-9ANIMAL or local police to report an animal suffering in the heat.