As a dogwalker, I get a little schvitzy out there walking my clients in 95-degree heat. But sweating a little is nothing compared to how dogs have to deal with the heat. And while panting may seem alarming (hydrate!), there’s another menace underfoot: hot pavement. It can burn dog paw pads in just 60 seconds. When the air temperature is just 85 degrees, asphalt can reach a scorching 135. Even on a mild 77-degree day, direct sunlight can heat asphalt to an unsafe 125. Dark, dense pavements (like asphalt and tarmac) act like a sponge for solar radiation. They absorb heat rapidly and release it slowly, meaning they can stay dangerously hot long after the sun goes down.
To check if the ground is safe, perform this seven-second test: If the ground is too hot to comfortably hold the back of your hand against it, it is too hot for your dog.
To keep your dog safe and comfortable during summer, adjust your outdoor routine to avoid midday heat.
- Time your walks: Stick to early mornings (before 10 a.m.) or late evenings (after 7 p.m.) when surfaces have cooled.
- Seek natural terrain: Whenever possible, walk your dog on grass, dirt trails, or in shaded areas, as plants and soil stay much cooler than pavement.
- Use dog boots: All-terrain footwear or summer-specific booties can mitigate the danger of burning paws.
If your dog’s paws look red, swollen, blistered or are peeling, move them to a cool, shaded area immediately.
- Flush with cool water: Gently rinse the paws under slow-running cool water.
- Avoid ice: Never apply ice directly, as extreme cold can cause further tissue damage.
- Bandage and consult a vet: Cover the paws with a clean, dry sock or bandage to prevent infection, and contact a local animal hospital for professional care.
