It's important to protect your pets' paws on hot days because their paw pads are sensitive to extreme temperatures. Whether you're taking them for a walk or letting them roam outside, here are some practical ways to protect their paws during the summer heat.
1. Avoid Hot Pavement and Surfaces
Why it matters: Pavement, asphalt, sand, and concrete can get extremely hot during the summer and can burn your pet's paws. The ground can reach temperatures much higher than the air temperature, and this can cause painful burns and damage to their paw pads.
What to do:
- Test the ground: Before walking your pet on concrete or asphalt, do the "hand test." Place the back of your hand on the ground for 7-10 seconds. If it's too hot for your hand, it's too hot for their paws.
- Walk during cooler times: Early morning or late evening, when the pavement is cooler, is a better time for walks. If you absolutely must walk during the day, keep the walks short and on grassy or shaded areas.
2. Provide Protective Footwear (Booties)
Why it matters: Pet booties or paw protectors are a great way to shield your pet's paws from hot surfaces and sharp objects (like rocks, glass, or thorns).
What to do:
- Choose breathable booties: Make sure the booties are breathable to prevent excessive sweating or overheating of the paws. Opt for booties designed for summer use.
- Practice wearing them: If your pet isn't used to wearing booties, gradually introduce them to the idea by letting them wear them indoors and rewarding them with treats for positive reinforcement.
3. Use Paw Balm or Wax
Why it matters: Paw balms or waxes help create a protective barrier on your pet's paw pads, preventing burns from hot surfaces and keeping the pads hydrated and soft.
What to do:
- Apply paw balm regularly: Look for natural paw balms or waxes made specifically for pets. These often contain ingredients like shea butter, beeswax, and oils that help protect and hydrate the paws.
- Apply before walks: Rub the balm into the pads before walking your pet, especially if you're walking on hot or rough surfaces. Be sure to reapply if your pet has been swimming or walking a lot.
4. Provide Access to Cool, Shaded Areas
Why it matters: Cats and dogs naturally gravitate toward cooler spots, but sometimes they need help finding them during the summer. Hot ground and direct sunlight can be hard on their paws and bodies.
What to do:
- Create a shaded spot: Set up a shaded area for your pets in your yard or on your patio with blankets or a pet umbrella. If you're on a walk, take breaks in shaded spots or near trees.
- Indoor cooling: If your pet prefers being inside during hot days, make sure there are cool places for them to relax—air-conditioned rooms or fans will help keep them comfortable.
5. Use Cooling Mats
Why it matters: Cooling mats are designed to stay cool for extended periods and give your pet a comfortable, safe place to rest during hot weather.
What to do:
- Place cooling mats: Place cooling mats or pads in spots where your pet likes to lie down. They help regulate body temperature and reduce overheating, which also benefits their paw pads.
6. Limit Walking on Hot Surfaces
Why it matters: Hot pavement and sand can lead to paw pad injuries and burns. During extreme heat, it's important to limit outdoor activity.
What to do:
- Walk on grass: If possible, stick to grassy areas, as the grass stays cooler than concrete, asphalt, or sand. If you're at the beach, try to walk on wet sand near the water where it's cooler.
- Use pet stroller: If your pet has trouble walking or you can't avoid hot surfaces, consider using a pet stroller to protect their paws from burning while you still get to enjoy the outdoors.
7. Keep Their Paws Clean
Why it matters: Dirt, debris, or salt (from roads) can accumulate on your pet's paws and cause irritation or injury. Hot pavement can also make the pads more susceptible to damage if they're not clean and hydrated.
What to do:
- Wash paws after walks: After every walk or outdoor excursion, rinse and wipe down your pet's paws to remove dirt, sand, or chemicals like salt. A gentle rinse with cool water works best.
- Inspect paws regularly: Check your pet's paw pads for cracks, blisters, or any signs of injury. Keeping their paws healthy and hydrated is crucial.
8. Hydration
Why it matters: Dehydration can cause your pet's paws to become dry and cracked. Hot weather can lead to rapid fluid loss, so keeping your pet hydrated helps maintain healthy paws.
What to do:
- Ensure fresh water access: Make sure your pet always has access to fresh, clean water, especially during hot days when they're more likely to become dehydrated.
- Cool down with water: After a walk or outdoor time, offer your pet cool water to help bring their body temperature back to normal.
9. Avoiding Hot Cars
Why it matters: Never leave your pet in a hot car—it can be deadly. Even if the weather doesn't seem too hot, the interior of a car can heat up to dangerous levels very quickly, which can lead to serious injuries, including burns to the paws.
What to do:
- Leave pets at home: On particularly hot days, leave your pets at home if you're going somewhere they can't safely join you. Never leave them unattended in a vehicle, even for a short time.
By taking a few simple precautions, you can keep your pet's paws safe, healthy, and comfortable during hot weather. If you ever notice cracks, blisters, or signs of paw injury, be sure to consult your vet for advice and care.
10. Watch for Sunburns!
Why it matters: Yes, dogs can get sunburns! Just like humans, dogs can suffer from sun damage if they are exposed to prolonged periods of direct sunlight. Some breeds are more prone to sunburn than others, especially those with lighter skin, thin fur, or exposed areas like their noses and bellies.
What to do: Prevention is key—provide shade, use dog-safe sunscreen, and avoid the sun during peak hours to protect your pet from painful sunburns.
Protect Your Dog from Sunburn:
- Avoid Peak Sun Hours: Limit outdoor playtime and walks during the peak sun hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.). Early morning and late evening are better times to be outside with your dog.
- Provide Shade: Always make sure your dog has access to a shaded area if they are outdoors. Whether it's under a tree, an umbrella, or a doghouse, shaded areas are crucial in preventing sunburn.
- Use Pet-Friendly Sunscreen:
- Look for dog-safe sunscreens that are specifically formulated for pets. Human sunscreens can contain ingredients like zinc oxide, which is toxic to dogs if ingested.
- Apply sunscreen to exposed areas such as the nose, ears, belly, and the inside of their legs. Be sure to reapply it every 2-3 hours if your dog is swimming or sweating.
- Dog Clothing: Consider investing in sun-protective clothing for your dog. There are lightweight, breathable shirts or coats that can help cover areas of their body that are vulnerable to sun exposure.
- Limit Beach or Pool Time: If your dog loves the beach, make sure they have plenty of breaks in the shade. After swimming, thoroughly rinse them off to remove saltwater or chlorine that can further dry out their skin.
- Watch for signs of sunburn: Monitor your dog for redness, peeling, flaking, pain, or sensitivity. They might develop blisters in severe cases.
Treatment for Dog Sunburn:
If your dog does get sunburned, here's what you can do to help:
- Cool Compress: Apply a cool, damp cloth to the affected area to soothe the skin and reduce redness. Avoid using ice, as it can cause further irritation.
- Aloe Vera Gel: Use pure aloe vera gel (without alcohol or added fragrances) to soothe the burn. Be sure to use a pet-safe version if available. Avoid human aloe products that contain alcohol or other chemicals.
- Topical Ointments: Consult your vet about using any topical creams or ointments specifically designed for dogs to treat sunburn or promote healing.
- Hydration and Rest: Ensure your dog is resting in a cool environment and drinking plenty of water to help their skin recover.
- Vet Consultation: If the sunburn is severe, if blisters appear, or if you're concerned about infection, contact your veterinarian for proper treatment.