Paw Protection: Tips to Prevent Burns and Blisters During the Summer Heat

June 3, 2023 10:20 pm Published by Leave your thoughts

Adorable,Brown,And,White,Basenji,Dog,Smiling,And,Giving,APaw Protection: Tips to Prevent Burns and Blisters During the Summer Heat

Summer is an enjoyable season for pet owners to spend time outdoors with their furry companions. However, the hot weather also poses a risk to their paws. Hot pavement, sand, or asphalt burns can cause severe pain and discomfort in dogs. The good news is that as a dog owner, you can take steps to prevent burns and blisters on your pet’s paws. Here are some tips to help protect your dog’s paws from the summer heat.

Walk Your Dog at Cooler Times of the Day

The summer sun can make asphalt, pavement, or sand scorching hot, which can burn your pet’s paws. It’s important to walk your dog at cooler times of the day, such as early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Avoid walking your dog on hot surfaces during the hottest parts of the day, like midday, to minimize the risk of burns.

You can check the temperature of the pavement by placing the back of your hand on it for a few seconds before taking your dog for a walk. If the pavement feels too hot for you, it’s too hot for your dog as well, and you might want to wait for the surface to cool down before taking your pet for a walk. If the pavement is too hot to touch, it can also be helpful to walk your dog on grass or shaded areas to allow your pet’s paws to cool down and avoid issues during your walk.

Use Protective Paw Balms

Using protective paw balms can protect your dog’s paws from hot surfaces. Protective paw balms are specially formulated to provide an extra barrier between your pet’s pads and the hot ground, preventing injuries and keeping paws moisturized and healthy. Paw balms with natural ingredients like beeswax, shea butter, and coconut oil are great options to protect and heal your dog’s paws from the summer heat. Balms are easy to apply and only require a small amount per paw, so it’s a simple and effective way to protect your pet’s paws.

Provide Adequate Hydration

Hydration is essential for dogs, especially during hot weather. Proper hydration not only cools down your dog’s body, but it also helps to keep paws moisturized. Dehydration can cause dry and cracked paw pads, which can make your furry friend more susceptible to burning and blistering.

The best way to ensure your dog remains hydrated is by providing ample fresh water. Make sure that your pet has access to clean, fresh drinking water at all times, and keep an eye out for signs of dehydration, including lethargy, dry gums, and sunken eyes. If you notice any of these symptoms, offer your pet water immediately and consider consulting with your vet for further advice.

Trim Your Dog’s Nails

Overgrown nails can cause your pet to walk unnaturally, affecting how pressure is distributed on their paws. Additionally, long nails can result in your dog’s toes splaying, leading to more pressure placed on the paw pads, which can result in soreness, blisters, and even burns. If you notice that your dog’s nails have grown too long, consider trimming them or taking them to the groomer.

Protect Your Dog’s Paws with Dog Shoes or Boots

Dog shoes or boots can provide extra protection against hot surfaces during walks. These shoes protect your pet’s paws from the harmful effects of hot pavement while also offering additional support for longer walks or hikes. Dog shoes are especially useful for dogs with sensitive paws and can help prevent injuries, burns, and blisters. Ensure that you purchase high-quality shoes that fit your dog properly and that they’re comfortable walking in them.

Avoid Walking Near Bodies of Water Treated with Chemicals

Swimming pools, lakes, or ponds often contain chemicals like chlorine, algaecides, and other harmful substances that can damage your dog’s paws. When walking your pet in areas near water bodies, ensure that you avoid areas that could damage their paws.

Regularly Inspect Your Dog’s Paws

Check your dog’s paws regularly, especially during the hot summer months. Watch for blisters, redness, or abnormalities on the pads of the paws. If you notice any signs of damage, such as cuts or burns, schedule an appointment with your vet immediately.

Final Thoughts

Protecting your pet’s paws during the summer can help ensure that your furry friend stays healthy and happy. The tips mentioned above are simple and effective ways to keep your dog’s feet protected from the summer heat. By taking these preventative measures, your pet can still enjoy outdoor activities, walks, and hikes, even during the hot summer season.

Categorised in:

This post was written by admin

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *