Protecting Your Dog's Feet from Summer Burns
Dog Foot Pads Can Burn or Become Raw and Sore on Hot Pavements
Jul 1, 2009
Summer is a great time to get out and take a walk or hike with the pup but dog owners should remember that summer can bring hazards for dogs including burned feet from walking on hot surfaces.
Dogs have cushiony pads on their feet for protection, one for each toe and a bigger one in the center of the foot. Doggy foot pads are generally tough but walking on hot surfaces can cause painful burns that can lead to infection. Dog owners protect their feet with thick-soled shoes and must not forget that the dog’s feet also need protection in summer.
Pet owners sometimes forget that doggy foot pads can be vulnerable to hot surfaces. Sidewalks, pavements, sand, and especially black asphalt can reach blistering temperatures in direct sunlight and cause nasty burns on doggy feet. Dog guardians who remember to provide protection against cuts and bruises on rocky or thorny terrain may easily forget that hot pavements can burn a dog’s feet. Burned foot pads aren’t usually noticed until the dog starts to limp or refuses to walk.
Signs of Burned Foot Pads
- dog limping or refusing to walk
- foot pads appearing darker in color than usual
- raw, red or blistered foot pads
- dog licking or chewing on the feet
How to Relieve Burned Foot Pads
If burned pads are discovered, it’s important to act immediately to minimize pain, irritation, and risk of infection.
- remove dog immediately from hot surface even if he must be carried
- cool feet with water or cold compresses
- minimize licking with bandages, booties, or bitter sprays
- keep feet clean to minimize risk of infection
- have a vet examine for deep burns or infection
Do not apply butter or any greasy ointment.
Avoiding Burned Feet in Dogs
When summer temperatures heat up sidewalks, parking lots, and sandy beaches, dog guardians can choose to:
- walk the dog early before the sun heats things up
- walk on grassy paths or in shady areas
- put dog booties on the pup
Water play is refreshing in the summer but tender foot pads softened from prolonged water exposure can burn more easily. Dog owners should take extra care to protect dogs’ feet from hot surfaces after water play.
Other Summer Hazards for Dogs
Summer is a fun and relaxed time of year. Dog owners can keep summer happy by learning about and avoiding other summer hazards for dogs such as heat stroke, dehydration, sunburn, and swimming accidents.
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