Hot footpaths can be extremely dangerous for dogs' feet. Since dogs lack the protective footwear that humans use, their paw pads are directly exposed to surfaces that can absorb and retain heat. Here’s what you need to know:

How Hot is Too Hot?

• Asphalt, concrete, and other pavement materials can get significantly hotter than the air temperature. On a sunny day with an air temperature of 25°C, asphalt can reach 52°C, which is hot enough to burn skin.
• If the air temperature rises to 30°C, pavement can exceed 57°C, causing severe burns within seconds.

Signs of Paw Pad Burns

• Limping or reluctance to walk
• Darkened, discolored, or blistered paw pads
• Redness, peeling, or visible raw skin
• Licking or chewing at the feet
• Whining or showing signs of discomfort

The "7-Second Rule"

Before walking your dog, press the back of your hand firmly against the pavement for 7 seconds:

• If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your dog's paws.

Prevention Tips

1. Walk During Cooler Hours
   • Early morning or late evening walks are best to avoid the hottest parts of the day.
2. Check the Ground Temperature
   • Use the 7-second rule or invest in an infrared thermometer to measure the pavement's surface temperature.
3. Stick to Grass or Shade
   • Walk on grass, dirt trails, or shaded areas to reduce the risk of burns.
4. Protective Gear
   • Consider dog booties or paw wax to create a barrier between your dog’s feet and the hot surface.
5. Paw Care
   • Regularly check your dog’s paws for cracks or injuries. Moisturize with a pet-safe balm to keep pads healthy and less prone to damage.

First Aid for Burnt Paws

If you suspect your dog has burned paw pads:

• Immediately bring them to a cooler, shaded area.
• Gently clean the paws with cool water to remove debris.
• Avoid using ice, as it can damage tissues further.
• Apply a cold compress or wrap paws in a damp cloth.
• Contact a veterinarian for further treatment and pain relief.

Additional Risks

• Beyond burns, walking on hot surfaces can lead to heat exhaustion, especially in breeds with thick coats or short snouts.

When in Doubt

Err on the side of caution. If the weather feels uncomfortably warm for you, it's likely worse for your dog.

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