Many dogs and their owners enjoy nothing more than a summer walk together. But as an owner, sound animal care includes taking precaution when the walking route may include hot asphalt or pavement.
A dog’s paws can be burnt and damaged on scorching asphalt that may be hot enough to fry an egg. And it’s especially true for puppies with tender young paws.
That said, there are plenty of precautions you can take to keep your dog happy, active and injury-free.
* Walk your dog in the early morning or late evening when the pavement – and temperatures – are cooler. The sun is hottest in the afternoon or early evening, as is the pavement. Conversely, it’s not a bad idea to walk your dog on asphalt or pavement during cooler times of the day to help toughen their paws. It could help prevent burns later on.
* Practicing good animal care includes moisturizing your dog’s paws, not only before the walk, but daily. It will prevent injuries such as cuts or cracking. There are moisturizing pad creams made just for this purpose.
* Paw wax, like moisturizing cream, is designed to protect your dogs paws not only from hot surfaces, but also chemicals such as road salt.
* If your dog will wear them, dog shoes are good way to protect paws. Not all dogs will use them or have an easy time walking with them, but rubber-soled shoes provide plenty of protection.
Dogs socks are another alternative although, again, they may not be for your dog. You can even use your own old socks, or baby socks.
* Stick to the grass and shady areas during the hotter parts of the day. A park with plenty of shade can be a wonderful place to take your dog when the heat is high.
* Most of all, use the same kind of common sense you use for any kind of animal care. Remember: If the pavement feels too hot for your feet, it’s also too hot for your dog’s. Moreover, the air temperature does not accurately reflect the heat of the asphalt, which retains the sun’s heat at a much greater rate.