When the summer heat arrives, many pet owners remember to provide fresh water, limit outdoor activity, and watch for signs of overheating. However, one critical detail often gets overlooked: your pet’s paws. Pavement, asphalt, sand, and sidewalks can become dangerously hot and cause severe burns to your pet’s sensitive paw pads.
In this summer safety guide, we’ll explain how hot surfaces affect your pet, how to recognize signs of paw damage, and the best ways to protect those precious paws all season long.
Why Hot Pavement Is Dangerous for Pets
Dogs and cats regulate their body temperature differently from humans. While we wear shoes, they walk barefoot. The pads on their paws may seem harsh, but they are sensitive and prone to burns when exposed to extremely hot surfaces.
On a sunny day, pavement temperatures can be 40°F to 60°F (4°C to 15°C) higher than the air temperature. That means if it's 85°F (29°C) outside, asphalt can heat up to 130°F (54°C)—hot enough to fry an egg and burn skin in seconds.
Paw burns can cause:
- Pain and limping
- Cracked or bleeding pads
- Blisters or peeling skin
- Reluctance to walk
- Infections, if not treated
How to Tell if the Ground Is Too Hot
An easy way to check if the pavement is safe for your pet is the “7-Second Rule”:
👉 Place the back of your hand on the pavement for 7 seconds.
If it feels too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your pet’s paws.
Also, be cautious with sand and artificial grass, especially at the beach or dog parks—these surfaces can also get scorching hot quickly.
Tips to Protect Your Pet’s Paws in Summer
Here are simple yet effective ways to prevent paw injuries during hot weather:
1. Walk During Cooler Hours
Schedule walks early in the morning or after sunset when the ground has cooled. Midday is the hottest time and should be avoided.
2. Stick to Shaded or Grassy Areas
Choose routes with natural shade, grass, or dirt paths. Grass is much cooler than pavement and gentler on paws.
3. Use Paw Protection Products
Pet-safe paw balms or waxes create a barrier between your pet’s paws and the hot surface. Some also help moisturize and heal minor injuries.
4. Invest in Dog Booties
Protective booties are an excellent solution for walks on hot pavement. Choose breathable, well-fitting options to prevent discomfort. It may take time for your pet to adjust, but the protection is worth it.
5. Keep Paw Pads Healthy
Regularly inspect your pet’s paws for any signs of injury. Keep the fur between their toes trimmed, and moisturize with vet-approved paw creams to prevent cracking.
6. Carry Your Pet When Necessary
For small dogs or cats, consider carrying them across hot surfaces if walking is unavoidable.
What to Do If Your Pet Gets a Paw Burn
If you suspect your pet’s paws are burned:
- Move them off the hot surface immediately.
- Rinse paws with cool (not ice-cold) water.
- Avoid touching or applying home remedies like oils or butter.
- Keep them from licking the wound.
- Contact your veterinarian for proper treatment.
Early intervention can prevent infection and promote quicker healing.
Extra Tips for Summer Pet Safety
Protecting paws is just one part of summer pet care. Make sure to:
- Provide plenty of clean water
- Avoid leaving pets in parked cars
- Offer shaded resting areas
- Watch for signs of heatstroke (drooling, excessive panting, lethargy)
Final Thoughts
Your pet trusts you to keep them safe, and their paws need protection just like the rest of their body. With a bit of awareness and preparation, you can enjoy summer walks without risking injury.
Tip to remember: If the pavement burns your hand in a few seconds, it can hurt your pet’s paws just as quickly. Always check the ground before stepping out for a walk.
