There’s nothing better than soaking up the sunshine and heading outside with your pup in the summer—but those hot surfaces can be tough on tender paws. Dog paw protection is especially important during summer months, when surfaces can heat up quickly and hidden dangers lurk in the grass! In this article, we’ll provide you with some paw-some tips to protect your dog’s paws from heat and provide paw protection in summer!
Paw protection against scorching surfaces starts with a quick hand test. Asphalt, concrete, wood or composite decks, sand, and even metal docks can heat up fast. If they feel too hot for you, they’re burns waiting to happen for your pup. When you’re wondering how to protect paws from hot pavement or other surfaces, there are a few strategies you can use:
On the hottest days, swap street treks for sprinkler play or brief strolls on cooler ground to keep those paws happy and injury-free. Watch for signs of paw pad burns (e.g., limping, licking a paw, red or bleeding pads, holding the paw abnormally) and seek immediate veterinary attention if burns are suspected.
While they may look innocent, grass awns are a sneaky summer threat. These barbed seed pods can lodge themselves in fur and work their way into the skin, especially between the toes. Grass awns in dog paws can lead to swelling, limping or even infection. Regular grooming, post-walk inspections and steering clear of tall grass can help keep these painful irritants at bay.
Summer yards are full of excitement—and potential injuries. One big culprit? Metal lawn edging. Though it may seem dull, it can cut paws when a dog runs by at full speed. For safer play, opt for pet-friendly landscaping options. Another tip for paw protection in summer: Keep those nails trimmed. A torn nail can be just as painful and problematic as a cut pad.
Ticks love sneaky hiding spots, especially between the toes. Year-round parasite prevention is your best defense, but frequent paw checks after walks can also help you catch them early.
With just a few mindful changes to your summer routine and a solid grasp of how to protect your dog’s paws during the summer, you can keep your dog’s feet protected, cool and injury-free—because nothing should come between a dog and their next great backyard zoomie session!
