Summertime Dog Facts

By Deb Haines

Sidewalks and pavements can become significantly hotter than the air temperature, posing a risk of burning or blistering a dog’s paws. It’s crucial to check the pavement temperature before walking your dog, and to consider walking them at cooler times of day or on cooler surfaces like grass.

Pavement can become very hot, posing a risk of burns to a dog’s paws. A good rule of thumb is if the pavement is too hot for your hand to comfortably stay on it for 5 seconds, it’s likely too hot for your dog’s paws.

Burns can occur in as little as 60 seconds on pavement hot enough, and even faster at higher temperatures.

Factors like age, breed, and health can affect a dog’s tolerance for heat, so it’s always best to err on the side of caution.

*Artificial turf *

Artificial turf can burn a dog’s paws, especially during hot weather. The synthetic materials used in artificial turf can absorb and radiate heat, potentially causing paw burns if the temperature becomes excessive. The infill materials, like crumb rubber, can also contribute to heat retention.

Artificial turf, especially low-quality or infill-based turf, can absorb and radiate heat significantly, especially in direct sunlight.

Solutions:

To minimize the risk of paw burns, consider using high-quality turf with heat-resistant features, providing shaded areas, and keeping your dog and the turf cool with water.

**The Vet Corner groups encourage members to establish a relationship with their local veterinarian, don’t wait until an emergency.**