Protecting Your Pet's Paws

If you have ever walked across hot pavement barefoot, you know that it can burn your feet. Unfortunately, hot paved surfaces can also cause burns on the pads of your dog’s feet, which is why it is important to know the signs and symptoms of burned foot pads and how to prevent and treat burns.

Beware of Asphalt: Signs and Symptoms of Burned Paws

Burned foot pads can occur anytime your dog is walking on hot asphalt. Common signs of burnt foot pads include limping or refusing to walk and excessive licking or biting of the feet. If you notice these signs in your pet while out on a walk, remove your dog from the direct heat and have your pet lie down in a shaded or grassy area. Carefully examine the bottoms of his or her feet. If the pads appear excessively dark or you see blisters, redness, or a combination of the two, your dog’s feet are burned.

Preventing and Treating Burned Foot Pads while out in the Sun

If at all possible, do not walk your dog on hot pavement or sidewalks while the sun is high in the sky. Sidewalks and paved paths and parking lots absorb the heat. Instead, walk your dog in the morning and in the evening. If that is not possible, keep your dog on grass or dirt trails to avoid potential burns.

If your dog’s feet do manage to get burned, move your dog into the shade and on the grass. Apply cool water or a wet cloth to your pet’s feet to stop the burning and cool the area. Then, call our veterinarian for further care instructions and to get your pet seen. Burned pads can lead to infections and pain and may require antibiotics and pain medication to keep your dog healthy and comfortable.

What do you do to protect your dog’s feet while walking and playing outside?