When temperatures climb into the 90s, it’s easy to focus on staying cool ourselves. But there’s another summer hazard many pet owners don’t think about until it’s too late: hot pavement.
Even though the air temperature may only be in the 90s, sidewalks, driveways and parking lots can become much hotter after hours in the sun.
That’s because concrete and asphalt absorb solar energy throughout the day and hold onto that heat. The surface temperature can climb well above the surrounding air, especially during the afternoon when the sun has had several hours to warm the ground.
Unlike people, dogs don’t usually wear shoes. Their paw pads provide some protection, but they can still suffer painful burns when exposed to extremely hot surfaces. Walking across hot pavement can cause redness, blistering and other injuries commonly referred to as paw burns.
A simple way to check if it’s safe is the 7-second test.
Place the palm of your hand flat on the pavement. If you can’t comfortably keep it there for seven seconds, the surface is likely too hot for your dog’s paws.
If the pavement fails the test, try walking your dog on grassy areas instead, where surface temperatures are often much cooler. It’s also a good idea to schedule walks early in the morning or after sunset, when sidewalks and roads have had time to cool.
During Houston’s long, hot summers, a few extra seconds spent checking the pavement can help prevent painful injuries and keep your furry family members safe.
Tips for protecting your dog’s paws
- Use the 7-second hand test before every walk.
- Walk early in the morning or later in the evening.
- Choose grass or shaded paths whenever possible.
- Avoid asphalt parking lots and dark-colored pavement during the hottest part of the day.
- If your dog begins limping or repeatedly lifts its paws, move them to a cooler surface immediately and contact your veterinarian if you notice signs of a burn.
It may only take a few seconds to check the pavement, but those few seconds can make a big difference for your pet.