10 Tips To Protect Your Dog's Paws From Hot Pavement

Image by: Aaron Tait, FlickrIt can be tempting to take your dog everywhere to enjoy the nice summer weather with you, but it can sometimes come with a consequence. A lot of owners forget that asphalt and cement can get hot enough to cook an egg during the summer, resulting in nasty burns on your dog's paw pads. 

Protect Your Dog's Paws

So what can be done to protect your dog's paws? Here are 10 tips to keep your dog from getting burned this summer.

1. Walk Him When It's Cool

It's still okay to take your dog out on daily walks, but be mindful of when and where you walk him. The best time to walk your dog is in the morning or early evening, when the sun is low in the sky and the pavement is still cool. Avoid walking your dog in the afternoon when the sun is high in the sky, because the pavement will be hot. 

2. Toughen His Paws

When it's time to walk your dog, it can actually be a good idea to stick to the pavement during the cool times of the day. While the pavement is cool, it won't burn your dog's paws, but help to toughen them up. This will help to prevent any potential burns that might come later on. 

3. Stay On The Grass

If you end up taking your dog out during the warmer times of the day, be sure to stay on the grass and stick to shady areas. Stay away from sidewalks or any paved areas to avoid burning. A shady park can be a great place to take your dog on a warm afternoon. 

4. Moisturize

Consider moisturizing your dog's feet daily to help prevent injuries like cuts, cracking, or peeling of the paws. Minor injuries like this can make your dog's paws more susceptible to burns and other serious problems. Moisturizing paw pad creams like Cain & Able Moisturizing Paw Rub can work wonders.

5. Dog Shoes

Dog shoes are one of the best ways to protect your dog's paws from heat and potential injuries. If this seems like the right solution for your dog, be sure to buy shoes like Ultra Paws Rugged Dog Boot that have rubber soles to offer the best protection. Be aware that not all dogs can get used to dog shoes, and some might have a hard time walking in them.

6. Peel And Stick Felt Pads

Image by: Jenna Prete, FlickrPeel and stick felt pads are a quick solution to the dangers of hot pavement. They're easy to stick onto the pads of your dog's feet, they help protect against potential burns and injuries, and even prevent the risk slipping on slick surfaces. 

7. Paw Wax

Paw wax can easily be smeared onto your dog's paw pads to protect them from harmful surfaces. Paw wax is designed to protect your dog's feet from hot surfaces and potentially harmful chemicals like road salts. Try Musher's Secret Paw Wax if you frequently go out with your dog.

8. Disposable Dog Booties

Disposable dog booties are a great short-term for the summer heat. Dog booties like Simple Solution Nooby's Disposable Dog Booties can provide good protection from the heat, and are a great temporary solution if you need to take your dog out on a hot day.

9. Socks

Socks are a decent last minute solution if you need to take your dog onto the hot pavement. Like dog shoes, not every dog will tolerate wearing socks. You should be weary when putting socks on your dog's feet, some dogs will be tempted to eat them.

10. Check His Paws 

Be sure to check your dog's paw pads daily for any signs of damage. If you do happen to see a problem, or if your dog is acting strangely on his feet, be sure to have him taken to the vet to see how bad the injury is. 

These 10 tips will help your dog stay safe and uninjured this summer from the hot pavement. Be sure to keep a close eye on the dog to protect him from any heat related injuries.

Also Read: Hot Dogs Are More Than A Fun Treat -- Protect Your Pooch